Abstract
This study evaluates the influence of endoparasites on the weight gain of Nelore cattle. Samples from 193 calves in the laying period (280 to 600 days of age) were collected from June 2007 to May 2008 and divided into 2 groups: Treatment (T) and Control (C) groups. Animals were assessed for weight gain and endoparasite infestation by fecal egg count (FEC). All calves in Group T had been previously treated with 1% ivermectin and abamectin from 120 to 205 days in the growing period, and at 344 days of age, respectively. Calves in Group C were treated with 1% ivermectin at 205 days of age. In June 2007, the mean daily weight gain (MDWG) and FEC were higher in T than in C. In September 2007, the MDWG was 0,11 kg in T and -0,04 kg in C calves, whereas FEC was 198 and 619 eggs/g, respectively. In January 2008, the MDWG in C was higher than that of T calves, while FEC in Group T increased. These results suggest that cattle's exposure to endoparasites could have stimulated host immune responses strong enough to control gastrointestinal parasitism.
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