18th Annual Student Research Conference
Science
Efficacy of an Apple Cider Vinegar Extract as a Natural Deworming Agent in Grazing Beef Cows
Joshua Schaeffer
Dr. Glenn R. Wehner, Faculty Mentor
Twenty-eight Gelbvieh Cows were randomized into three treatments: Controls, Dectomex (commercial dewormer) or Cider (apple cider vinegar extract). Recent research has searched for natural methods to manage livestock as alternatives to chemicals due to demand for chemical free food. Deworming is a management tool for health and nutrient utilization. Commercial dewormers are chemicals, therefore, a natural dewormer might provide similar cheaper benefits. Base worm loads were obtrained from all cows at startup and were similar across groups. Contol cows recieved no treatment. Dectomex cows were injected at 3cc/hd/110 lb. body weight. Cider cows were given access to mineral supplement with apple cider vinegar extract to provide 1/3 oz/hd/day. Fecal egg counts were obtained by grab sample after 60 days. Dectomex cows infestation did not vary but were significantly (P<.05) less than Control or Cider cows. Control cows did not differ significantly (P>.05) from Cider cows. Cider extract did not reduce worm loads and is not a good substitute for commercial dewormers
Keywords: Beef Cattle, Grazing Cows, Dewormers, Apple Cider Vinegar
Topic(s):Agricultural Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 29-57
Location: OP Lobby & Atrium
Time: 1:15