Cattle & Sheep Worming Program Australia | Complete Parasite Control Guide

Effective parasite control in Australian livestock requires a structured approach that uses multiple drench classes in rotation. This helps manage resistance and supports long-term herd and flock health.

This guide explains how to build a complete worming program for cattle and sheep using three major drench classes available in Australia: ivermectin-based products, combination drenches, and levamisole-based (clear drench) products.

Why Worming Programs Need Rotation

Parasite resistance develops when the same class of drench is used repeatedly over time. To maintain effectiveness, livestock producers rotate between different chemical classes.

• Reduces parasite resistance development
• Maintains drench effectiveness long-term
• Improves cattle and sheep productivity
• Supports sustainable livestock management

The 3 Core Worming Classes Used in Australia

1. Ivermectin-Based Products (Macrocyclic Lactones)

Ivermectin-based pour-ons are widely used for internal and external parasite control in cattle.

• Ivermec Pour-On 1L
• Ivermec Pour-On 2.5L
• Ivermec Pour-On 5L
• Ivermec Pour-On 20L

Commonly used for lice, mites, worms, and external parasite control in cattle.

2. Combination Products (Broad Spectrum Control)

Combination drenches provide multi-stage parasite control including liver fluke and internal worms.

• Triclamec Ultra 1L
• Triclamec Ultra 2.5L
• Triclamec Ultra 5L
• Triclamec Ultra 10L

Commonly used where liver fluke and multi-stage worm control is required.

3. Levamisole-Based Drenches (Clear Drench Group)

Kilverm is a levamisole-based oral drench used for susceptible internal parasites in cattle and sheep.

This is a different chemical class to ivermectin-based and combination products and is essential in rotation programs.

• Kilverm Oral Drench 1L
• Kilverm Oral Drench 5L

Example Australian Worming Rotation Program

A simple and effective rotation strategy used by livestock producers:

• Stage 1: Ivermectin-based pour-on (Ivermec range)
• Stage 2: Levamisole-based drench (Kilverm)
• Stage 3: Combination drench (Triclamec Ultra where required)

This rotation helps reduce parasite resistance and maintain long-term drench effectiveness.

Signs of Parasite Burden in Cattle & Sheep

• Poor weight gain
• Reduced feed conversion efficiency
• Dull or rough coat
• Scouring or digestive issues
• General loss of condition

Related Collections

• Cattle Supplies Australia
• Cattle & Sheep Supplies Australia
• Livestock Care Products
• Vetsense Rural Products Australia

Important Note

Always follow label directions, dose rates, withholding periods, and veterinary guidance when designing worming programs. Correct rotation and accurate dosing are essential to maintaining drench effectiveness and livestock health.