Farm Animals

Cattle Fly Control and Welfare in Summer

Managing fly burdens in cattle during summer to reduce irritation, disease transmission, and welfare costs.

Key Facts

Face flies and horn flies cause significant irritation and welfare costs in summer cattle
Fly-borne disease including infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis reduces production and welfare
Pour-on insecticides, ear tags, and back rubbers are common control methods
Biological control using dung beetles and parasitic wasps reduces fly populations naturally
Adequate shade and ventilation reduce fly annoyance in housed cattle

Welfare Considerations

Fly annoyance causes chronic stress in cattle during summer months, reducing feeding behaviour and welfare, and control measures deliver direct welfare benefits.

What You Can Do

Implement integrated fly control programmes on cattle farms
Support research into sustainable and welfare-friendly fly control methods
Advocate for fly control as a component of summer cattle welfare standards