Control of Coccidiosis due to Eimeria bovis and Eimerla zuernii in Calves with Toltrazurll under Fleld Conditions in Comparison with Diclazuril and Untreated Controls

• Published in: Parasitology research (1987) 2007-08, Vol.101, p.93-104
• Main Authors: Mundt, H-C, Roedder, F, Mengel, H, Bangoura, B, Ocak, M, Daugschies, A
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Eimeria bovis; Eimeria zuernii
• ISSN: 0932-0113
• DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0616-6

The efficacy of preventive treatment with toitrazuril against natural infections with Eimeria bovis and/or Eimeria zuernii in calves was investigated in comparison with diclazuril and untreated controls. The study was conducted as a multi-centred, blinded, controlled and randomised field study, with 164 calves at four centres (farms) in northern, eastern and southern Germany. All participating farms had a known history of coccidiosis. Animals were randomised to treatment 14 days after stabling in the respective facility: group I (57 animals) received 15 mg toitrazuril per kg body weight, group II (54 animals) 1 mg diclazuril per kg body weight and group III (53 animals) served as shamtreated controls. The assessment of efficacy was based on oocyst excretion of E. bovis and E. zuernii (opg) throughout the study (three to four times per week; study duration 57 days). Coccidiosis due to E. bovis and/or E. zuernii occurred in all centres. However, the extent and course over time were variable. The duration and rate of oocyst excretion of E. bovis or E. zuernii were significantly lower in the toltrazuril-treated group compared to groups II and III. It is concluded that a single prophylactic treatment with toitrazuril on day 14 after stabling provides effective and sustainable control of stable coccidiosis under various field conditions.