Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a disease of the reproductive tract caused by the parasite Tritrichomonas foetus that affects cattle worldwide. It can lead to extended calving intervals, early fetal death, and infertility. Bulls carry the parasite and spread it during breeding. Infected bulls usually show no symptoms. Early fetal death and repeat breeding (infertility) may be the first signs of infection in a herd. In infected herds with a short, defined breeding season, the calf crop can decrease by 50 percent. In herds with longer breeding seasons (such as 6 months or more), the calving period can be extended. In smaller, less intensively managed herds where the problem is not recognized early, cows may produce a calf every 18 months, instead of the normal 12 months. Other diseases can also cause early fetal death and infertility. Testing is the only way to confirm trichomoniasis infection.

Missouri began enforcing Trichomoniasis regulations for bulls sold, leased, bartered or traded within the state on Sept. 1, 2011. The regulations require all non-virgin bulls and all bulls over 24 months of age be tested for Trichonomiasis before entering commerce.

There are some exemptions from testing allowed:

  • Bulls going directly to processing/slaughter facilities
  • Bulls sold at auction and going directly to processing/slaughter facilities
  • Bison
  • Virgin bulls 24 months of age or younger.

Producers selling virgin bulls 24 months of age or younger must complete the Trichonomiasis Virgin Status Certification Form (PDF) and submit it to the Missouri Department of Agriculture. Certifications are valid for thirty (30) days, or upon change of ownership of the livestock. Certificates must be submitted within 30 days of change of ownership. Email certificates to animal.health@mda.mo.gov or mail to Missouri Department of Agriculture, PO Box 630, Jefferson City, MO 65102.

Detailed testing requirements for bulls not exempted in one of the above categories can be found here, or by contacting the Division of Animal Health at (573) 751-3377 or animal.health@mda.mo.gov.

Bulls with a positive Trichonomiasis test, as well as their herds of origin, will be quarantined. The quarantine shall be released upon the following:

  • Animals going directly to processing/slaughter facilities may be released from quarantine.
  • Female(s) with a calf at side and has had no exposure to other than known negative Tritrichomonas foetus bulls since parturition, or has one hundred twenty (120) days of sexual isolation, or is determined by an accredited veterinarian to be at least one hundred twenty (120) days pregnant may be released from quarantine.
  • Bulls within the positive herd may be released from quarantine following two negative tests for Trichonomiasis at least one (1) week apart.

Resources