Insecticides for both cattle rubs and dust bags are presented in Table 1. Our emphasis is on the use of the cattle rub because we and other users have had excellent results with that technique. Dust bag insecticides are included for the convenience of the manager who wishes to consider using that technique for some parasite control. Some insecticides, such as the pyrethoids, are available in many brands. The user of any insecticide must be certain to get the proper product. The LD 50 is listed for general information about relative mammalian toxicity. Due to the nature of the chemicals and the use with the tool, this method of parasite control is humane and relatively environmentally safe by having minimal contact to the total environment.

Cattle rub insecticides can be diluted with No. 2 diesel fuel, No. 2 fuel oil, white oil or other approved diluents readily available and listed on the insecticide container label. We have used diesel without any livestock problems in 13 years of use. It is possible that some thin haired and tender skinned cattle may develop a rash from diesel fuel. The user must check the product labels for mixture dilutions, precautions, and any other pertinent information on the use of these insecticides for cattle rubs and dust bags. Always study the insecticide labels thoroughly. Check with veterinarians and livestock specialists for other insecticides, updates and new products.

Some producers use the dust bag technique primarily for face and horn fly control. Based upon feedback from those users, the dust bag technique is effective, but not as effective as the well-managed cattle rub technique. However, it may offer slightly less cost for a short time and be less messy. The dust bag is not as all encompassing for external parasite control, especially on the lower body, as certain insecticides used with the cattle rub. Humid weather tends to cause problems with the dust bags.

We have used primarily Co-Ral 5.6% EC at the proper dilution in diesel oil. This product has served well for face, head, and horn fly control and prevention, grub prevention, tick prevention and lice prevention. Our thought was to use one good product to accomplish many things, and thus keep the management as good, simple and grazier friendly as possible. There have not been any perceived insecticide resistance of flies and we do not expect any resulting from the use of this product with the tool.

Some graziers may choose to vary the insecticide used to lessen costs and to target specific flies, lice, or ticks. This may be done to limit cost by a few cents per herd. We have not found it necessary to do so. Varying insecticide use two or more times a year also increases management decisions, storage problems, etc. However, insecticide application to the rub on an as needed basis can limit costs to the minimum without reducing results.