Antibiotic use in cows: When does it become critical for dairy farmers?

Since 2023, new requirements for documenting antibiotic use have also been in place for dairy farmers. Two new key figures are crucial: they show how high the antibiotic consumption in their own operation compares to other farms. "If the farm's therapeutic frequency exceeds the national median (Key Figure 1), the farmer must work together with the veterinarian to identify causes and possible improvements," explains Dr. Peter Heimberg, from the Animal Health Service of the Agricultural Chamber of North Rhine-Westphalia. "If the upper comparison limit (Key Figure 2) is exceeded, specific reduction measures must be defined with a written plan and submitted to the authorities," he further explains in the interview.

What dairy farmers need to do when therapeutic frequency is too high

If Key Figure 2 is exceeded multiple times, serious action can be taken by the competent authority and measures can be ordered. "In such cases, it is no longer sufficient to simply make internal improvements - then there are official requirements," explains Heimberg. This includes mandatory diagnostics or the involvement of external experts in the action plan. For the action plan, the farmer must conduct an analysis of the situation together with the farm veterinarian and document measures in writing. The authority reviews the plan and can make further requirements. Affected farms can also receive support from animal health services or advisory centers if desired. "Especially with complex herd problems, external expertise is worthwhile," says Heimberg. The goal always remains: to reduce antibiotic use - through better husbandry, targeted prevention, and sustainable management.