What is the dose of Ivermectin for Cattle?

Ivermectin dose ranges in cattle, with cited primary-source references: PO 0.2 mg/kg single dose; SC 0.2 mg/kg single dose.

How is Ivermectin administered in Cattle?

Documented routes for Ivermectin in cattle: PO, SC.

Ivermectin for Cattle

Livestock · Bos taurus · typical adult weight 250.00–900.00 kg

Ivermectin is used in cattle for GI nematodes, lungworms, Internal and external parasites. Routes documented in cattle: PO, SC. A typical adult cattle weighs 250.00–900.00 kg. ExoticRx lists 2 cited dose rules for Ivermectin in cattle, drawn from published veterinary references. Verify against current literature before clinical use.

Trade names: Ivomec, Heartgard

Dose ranges

Route	Dose	Frequency	Indication	Evidence	Source
PO	0.2 mg/kg	single dose	GI nematodes, lungworms	Strong	FDA NADA Label
SC	0.2 mg/kg	single dose	Internal and external parasites	Strong	FDA NADA Label

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Mechanism of action

Potentiates glutamate-gated chloride channels in invertebrate nerve and muscle cells, causing paralysis and death of parasites.

Side effects & warnings

TOXIC to MDR1-mutant dogs (Collies, Shelties, Aussies) at elevated doses. DO NOT use in chelonians (turtles/tortoises). Narrow safety margin in some species. Test MDR1 status before use in herding breeds.

Species-specific contraindications and adverse-reaction reports for cattle may differ from canine / feline reference data — consult the primary citations listed with each rule.

Other Antiparasitic drugs with cattle dosing

Albendazole Amprolium Clorsulon Closantel (Livestock)Decoquinate Diclazuril (Livestock)Doramectin (Livestock)Eprinomectin Eprinomectin (Pour-On)Fenbendazole Halofuginone Lasalocid

Ivermectin dosing in other species

Chicken Goat Sheep Swine Turkey African Grey Parrot African Pygmy Hedgehog Ball Python

See all species for Ivermectin See all drugs for Cattle

Why a species-specific page? Ivermectin pharmacokinetics differ across species: dose ranges, intervals, and route preferences are not interchangeable. Cross-extrapolation from canine doses is unsafe in cattle — the rules above are the citations specific to this species, not generic recommendations.

Sourced from published veterinary references; awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer. See our editorial process. Reference only — not veterinary advice.