KDA Publishes Proposed Trichomoniasis Regulation

TOPEKA, Kan., - The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Health published a proposed regulation regarding Trichomoniasis (commonly referred to as Trich) in cattle. Trichomoniasis is a highly contagious venereal disease in cattle that is carried by a bull and transmitted to a cow during breeding. It causes pregnancy loss or abortion in the cow, prolonged calving intervals and high open rates in infected herds, which costs livestock farmers and ranchers valuable income. The proposed regulation, which appeared in the July 4, 2013, Kansas Register, addresses the change-of-ownership of bulls within Kansas and import requirements for both bulls and females. The department will accept public comments for 60 days and will hold a public hearing September 4, 2013, on the proposal. Click here to read and comment on the proposed regulation. “We are committed to working with our partners in the cattle industry to protect the well-being of Kansas livestock,” said Kansas Animal Health Commissioner Dr. Bill Brown. “KDA has worked with cattlemen and women, veterinarians in the field and other animal health experts on the proposed regulation to help protect herd health in Kansas.” Dr. Brown urges cattlemen and women who think they may have Trich in their cattle herd to contact their herd veterinarian or a Kansas state veterinarian.