The Colorado Department of Agriculture is reminding cattle owners to test herds for bovine trichomoniasis after having confirmed four positive cases of the disease in recent months.
The agriculture department said those cases appeared in Custer, Kit Carson, Las Animas and Otero counties. One case was diagnosed this year in Kit Carson County while the other three cases were diagnosed last year.
Known as “trich,” the bovine venereal disease can strike dairy and beef cattle. Caused by a parasite, the disease can lead to problems in cows such as abortion of calves and early embryonic death.
Testing and monitoring herds for trichomoniasis is the best way to control the infection, State Veterinarian Dr. Keith Roehr said in a statement issued by the agriculture department.
Colorado regulations require all non-virgin bulls changing ownership or coming to Colorado to undergo testing for the disease unless the animal is going to slaughter.
“Trich testing before the breeding season is inexpensive insurance against a disease outbreak and/or a breeding season disaster due to low calving rates,” a Colorado State University study says.
Laboratories statewide offer trich testing. Samples must be taken by an accredited veterinarian. The agriculture department asks cattle owners to call (303) 239-4161 with questions.
