Abstract
Background: Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism remains an important endemic problem in tropical dairy systems, yet epidemiological evidence integrating infection patterns with management-related risk factors is limited in Indonesia. Identifying determinants of infection at the population level is essential for targeted parasite control strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted on 400 dairy cattle in Batu City, East Java. Gastrointestinal parasites were identified through microscopic fecal examination using flotation, sedimentation, and the McMaster technique to determine their prevalence in dairy cattle. Data on animal and farm-level variables were collected, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 50 farmers. Associations between risk factors and infection status were analysed using Chi-square tests, odds ratios (OR), and relative risks (RR). Results: The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 11.75%. Infections were dominated by Eimeria spp. (5.50%), followed by strongyle-type nematodes (2.75%), Moniezia spp. (2.50%), Fasciola spp. (1.25%), and Amphistome eggs (0.25%). Calves had a significantly higher infection risk than adults (OR = 6.04; RR = 4.12). Closed housing (OR = 2.13; RR = 1.95) and small pen size (<10 cattle; OR = 5.47; RR = 4.77) were identified as key epidemiological risk factors. Conclusions: GI parasitism in Batu City is primarily driven by Eimeria spp. infections in calves and the use of closed housing systems. These findings indicate that control programs must shift from broad-spectrum deworming to targeted coccidiosis management for young stock and environmental modifications to reduce humidity and fecal accumulation in closed stalls.
Keywords
Cattle; Epidemiology; Gastrointestinal Parasites; Helminth; Prevalence