Drench resistance is a significant and growing concern for New Zealand farmers
A 2023 analysis of data from DrenchSmart, a faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) of FEC test results gathered over more than 20 years shows, that commonly used triple drenches are ineffective on 27% of New Zealand sheep farms. It also showed BZ/Lev combinations failed on 50% of NZ farms, while Lev/Aba combinations failed on 32% of NZ farms.
As parasites, particularly gastrointestinal nematodes, develop resistance to drenches, the effectiveness of these drench treatments diminishes, leading to poor animal health and decreased productivity.
The causes of drench resistance
- Drench overuse
- Incorrect dosing
- Lack of drench rotation
- Failing to quarantine new stock
- Poor pasture management, such as overgrazing
- Weather conditions such as warm and moist climates
- No parasite management plan
- Mass treatment, treating all stock in a herd at once, regardless of their parasite burden
Impact of drench resistance on New Zealand farms
- Increased drench costs
- Higher mortality rates
- Reduced farm value
- Reduced weight gain
- Reduced conception rates
- Reduced price at the works
- Reduced animal health
- Increased stress for the farmer
FECPAKG2 faecal egg count (FEC) analysis
FECPAKG2 assists New Zealand farmers to manage drench resistance by providing precise and timely faecal egg count (FEC) analysis. FECPAKG2 enables quick on-farm testing, enabling farmers to make informed decisions about parasite control.
Farmers can identify resistance patterns early by monitoring parasite loads regularly and adjust drenching strategies. This proactive approach helps use drenches more judiciously, slowing the development of drench resistance and supporting parasite management for New Zealand farms with drench resistance.
DrenchSmart faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT)
Undertaking a regular DrenchSmart faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) is vital for effective parasite management. DrenchSmart evaluates the efficacy of up to nine different drench actives on a specific New Zealand farm, providing a clear picture of which treatments are effective.
Regular DrenchSmart tests ensure that farmers are using effective drenches, protecting their livestock health and optimising parasite management. Combined with FECPAKG2, DrenchSmart testing provides a strong foundation to develop a parasite management plan and start working to decrease the rate of drench resistance on your farm. Protect your property and your livelihood for the future.