Don’t Play the Weight guessing Game
Commonly, dairies determine antibiotic dosage based on visual estimates of weight for large and small cows. Generally speaking, a large cow is a large cow; however, this practice of “eyeballing” presents a big risk in under- or overdosing of antibiotics, as doses vary greatly given differences in body weight. For example, recommended antibiotic dosage differs for a 1,500-pound cow versus
The impact of under- and overdosing antibiotics:
Without capturing accurate, individual body weights, cattle may be underdosed, which can decrease antibiotic efficacy or create
What can you do?
- Stop guessing.
- Capture individual weights with a weight tape or digital cattle scale.
- Weigh cows at freshening, one to two weeks post-freshening and at dry off to monitor for weight fluctuations that could indicate potential metabolic issues that may require treatment.
- Follow product labels.
Accurate body weight data allows for more accurate antibiotic dosing, which can result in improved treatment efficacy and prevention of residues in milk and meat.
EXCEDE®: Treat metritis with two shots and zero milk withdrawal
Work with your herd veterinarian and local Zoetis territory business manager to have a discussion on how to build a more strategic plan on proper dosing of antibiotics.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: People with known hypersensitivity to penicillin or cephalosporins should avoid exposure to EXCEDE. EXCEDE is contraindicated in animals with known allergy to ceftiofur or to the ß-lactam group (penicillins and cephalosporins) of antimicrobials. Inadvertent intra-arterial injection is possible and fatal. Do not use in calves to be processed for veal. Pre-slaughter withdrawal time is 13 days following the last dose. See full Prescribing Information.
EXD-00044R1
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