The prolonged dry spell followed by the recent wet weather has created ideal conditions for lungworms or hoose in livestock.

Lungworms is a respiratory disease, so if coughing can be heard in heifers or youngstock then taking dung samples for the identification of lungworm larvae and consultation with a vet is warranted.

Depending on the results of the lung samples or the advice of your vet, treatment may be required.

Some of the signs of lungworm are as follows:

According to Animal Health Ireland (AHI), the clinical signs of infection in cattle include coughing and difficulty breathing, especially when animals are being moved.

The disease is commonly described as ‘parasitic bronchitis’ and is also commonly known as hoose. It can result in death where serious infections occurs.

As deaths from hoose can occur with very little warning and at various times of the year, it is essential that farmers consult their veterinary practitioner when drawing up a parasite control programme.

Because lungworms can impact on animal performance, treatment should be carried out as quickly as possible.

However, it is important to not treat animals that do not require treatment as this is wasteful, expensive and aids anti-parasitic resistance.

To ensure that treatment is only given to animals that require it, you should consult with your vet before treating animals.

Lungworms may be an issue in your youngstock, but it could potentially be a number of other issues.

So, to ensure that you treat animals correctly consultation with your vet is advised.