How to Kill Dairy Cattle Mites

Mites are tiny parasites that feed on a host animal. There are five species of lice that affect cattle in the United States. The most common is a mange mite known as "tailhead mange," primarily a problem in winter especially in dairy cattle housed in closed quarters. These nasty parasites are not only uncomfortable for cattle, but can dramatically impact milk productivity. Even a mild mite infestation can cost a farmer a pound of milk per cow a day. Large-scale milk producers usually treat animals with pesticides to eliminate mites. But there are organic methods to control mites without employing toxic insecticides.

Things You'll Need

  • Diatomaceous Earth
  • Garlic powder
  • Organic soap
  • Organic soy or canola oil
  • Face mask
  • Gloves
  • Kelp meal
  • Liquid enzyme spray
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Instructions

    • 1

      Dust cattle with food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE). DE is not toxic and is even eaten by humans as a health supplement. It kills mites by piercing their exoskeletons and causing them to "leak" and die. Wear a face mask and gloves while applying DE as it can irritate lungs and skin. Avoid making clouds of dust cattle may inhale.

    • 2

      Wash cows with organic soap and water. Soap removes the waxy external cuticle on mites and they dry out and die. Repeat treatment with soap will be necessary.

    • 3

      Apply garlic powder to the cows' coats. Garlic kills and repels insects.

    • 4

      Use liquid enzyme spray. This is a relatively new and promising treatment that breaks down the exoskeletons of mites to kill them. It's non-toxic to animals and humans.

    • 5

      Feed cattle kelp meal. Kelp meal can be free-fed to cattle to boost immunity to parasites. Animals will only eat as much as they need to get necessary trace minerals lacking in their diet.

    • 6

      Spot-treat mites with organic soy or canola oil. Apply a light coat of oil along the spine and neck of the cattle to treat the most common areas of infestation. Oil coats the mites, depriving them of oxygen and killing them. Repeat oil treatment as necessary.