Bovine Trichomoniasis Update Talk to Your Veterinarian, Test Your Herd

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Colorado Department of Agriculture reminds cattle owners to test their herd for Bovine Trichomoniasis.

“Testing and monitoring herds for trichomoniasis is the best method of controlling this infection, ” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr. “ Cattle owners should talk to their veterinarian to determine the best management practices for their herd. ”

As of March 31, 2010, there are no positive “trich” locations in Colorado. So far this year, one Colorado County has had a positive trich case. (Prowers County)

An updated map highlighting Colorado counties with trichomoniasis locations can be found at www.colorado.gov/ag.

A map detailing trichomoniasis sample submissions by county and the prevalence for trichomoniasis-positive counties can also be found on our website.

“The Department has seen a decrease in the number of positive trich cases and is encouraged by these numbers; this shows that the livestock industry and the CDA mitigation efforts have been working, ” continued Roehr, “but this doesn’t mean ranchers should decrease their testing rates. It is important to remember that this infection does not respect county lines. ”

Positive Trich Locations        Number of Colorado Counties

2009                                                16                                                9

2008                                                43                                                17

2007                                                32                                                13

“Trich” is a costly, yet preventable, infection that can affect dairy and beef cattle. If bulls become infected, the percentage of open cows can increase from 5 to 30 percent.

Trich is a venereal disease of cattle caused by Trichomonas foetus (T. Foetus). The T. foetus infection causes fertility problems, such as early embryonic death or abortion of the calf, and is asymptomatic in bulls.

Colorado trich regulations require all non-virgin bulls changing ownership or being transported into Colorado be tested for T. foetus unless the animal is going to slaughter. Bulls on public land grazing permits or with grazing associations must also be tested prior to turn-out.

Several diagnostic laboratories across the state offer trich testing; samples must be taken by an accredited veterinarian. For testing questions, call CDA Animal Industry Division at (303) 239-4161.