Farm Animal Welfare

Farm Cattle: Fly Strike Prevention

While less common than in sheep, fly strike can occur in cattle with wounds or damp areas, and prevention is straightforward with good management.

Key Facts

Blowfly strike in cattle typically occurs in wounds, around the eyes, or in matted dung-soaked coats
Conditions causing fly attraction in cattle include pinkeye (IBK), dirty tail heads, and skin wounds
Wound treatment and fly repellent application prevent most cases of cattle fly strike
Good dung management and coat cleanliness in summer reduce fly breeding and attraction
Cattle housed in clean conditions are much less vulnerable than those on contaminated bedding

Welfare Considerations

Fly strike in cattle causes progressive tissue destruction and severe welfare harm if undetected. While less common than in sheep, the same principles of daily observation and rapid treatment apply. Preventing conditions that attract flies - particularly wounds and dirty coat areas - is the primary welfare intervention. Any wound in summer should be treated promptly and covered or protected from fly access.

What You Can Do

Inspect cattle for wounds and fly attraction during summer observation routines
Treat wounds promptly and apply fly repellent where appropriate
Maintain clean dry bedding in housed cattle to reduce fly breeding
Address eye infections promptly as discharge attracts flies
Observe cattle from behind for signs of fly strike around the tail and hindquarters