Cattle Curtain Back Rub

Description

The Cattle Curtain Back Rub is a simple, non-mechanical livestock treatment system designed to help apply compatible insecticide and oil solutions to cattle as they pass underneath. Commonly used for buffalo fly control and other livestock pest-management programs, the system uses 14 hanging wicks fed from an overhead reservoir to transfer solution onto the animal.

With no power supply or moving parts required, the Cattle Curtain is a low-maintenance option for farms, cattle yards and livestock access points where regular passive treatment is preferred.

1.2m Cattle Curtain Back Rub

• No power or moving parts required
• Approx. 1.2m / 4ft wide
• 14 hanging treatment wicks
• Approx. 12L / 3 gallon reservoir
• Adjustable wicking rate
• Suitable for cattle of different sizes and heights
• Can contact the face, body, legs and back as animals pass through
• Designed for use with compatible low-viscosity oil and insecticide mixtures
• Simple overhead installation
• UV-stabilised construction
• Made in the USA

How the Cattle Curtain Works

The Cattle Curtain is suspended above a regularly used livestock access point such as a gate, laneway, feeding area or approach to a water source.

The overhead reservoir is filled with a suitable treatment mixture, typically combining a compatible low-viscosity carrier oil with an insecticide selected for the target pest.

The solution is gradually transferred from the reservoir into the 14 hanging wicks. As cattle walk through the curtain, the wicks contact the animal and transfer the treatment solution onto the coat.

Because the wicks hang vertically at different positions across the access way, the system can contact more than just the animal's back and may also treat areas around the face, body and legs as the animal passes through.

Suitable for Different Animal Heights

One advantage of the curtain-style design is its ability to contact livestock of different heights.

With the unit installed at the correct height, cows, steers, calves and bulls can all pass through the hanging wicks and receive treatment.

The system can also be adapted for some other livestock such as horses, donkeys and mules by adjusting the installation height appropriately.

Note: Extra care should be taken where ridden animals are treated, as oil residue on the coat may affect areas beneath saddles or other equipment.

Adjustable Wicking Rate

The reservoir includes a flow-control valve that adjusts the rate at which treatment solution moves into the wicks.

Once correctly set for the chosen oil and insecticide mixture, the valve generally requires little adjustment.

• If the wicks are dripping excessively, reduce the flow slightly.
• If the wicks are becoming dry, increase the flow slightly.

Different carrier oils can wick at different rates, so some adjustment may be required whenever the treatment mixture is changed.

Approx. 12L Reservoir

The reservoir holds approximately 12L / 3 gallons of treatment solution.

The time between refills will depend on:

• Number of animals
• Frequency of animal movement through the curtain
• Wicking rate
• Carrier oil viscosity
• Environmental conditions

Installing the unit at a location animals regularly pass through, such as near water or feed, can help provide consistent contact.

Carrier Oil Selection

The Cattle Curtain is intended for use with compatible low-viscosity oils such as suitable hydraulic or mineral oils mixed with an approved livestock insecticide.

Diesel is not recommended as a carrier fluid because its low viscosity can make the wicking rate difficult to control.

Always confirm that the selected oil and insecticide are compatible with each other, suitable for the intended livestock, and permitted for the target pest and application.

Insecticide Selection

There are many livestock insecticides available for different pests and treatment programs.

Select a product specifically approved for the animal species and pest being treated, and follow the manufacturer's label directions for:

• Mixing rate
• Application method
• Retreatment interval
• Withholding periods
• Personal protective equipment

For assistance selecting an appropriate treatment, consult your rural supplies provider, veterinarian or agricultural adviser.

Simple Installation

The Cattle Curtain is designed to be suspended from an overhead gate, frame or similar structure.

Mounting eyelets are incorporated into each end of the reservoir to make attachment using suitable rope, chain or other supports straightforward.

A typical installation positions the reservoir approximately 1.5-1.6m above ground level, although the final height should be adjusted to suit the livestock being treated and the specific access point.

If animals are hesitant when the curtain is first installed, some of the wicks can be temporarily tied or lifted out of the way. They can then be lowered progressively as the animals become familiar with the system.

Low Maintenance Design

With no motor, pump or electrical components, the Cattle Curtain has very few components requiring maintenance.

The main routine tasks are:

• Checking treatment solution level
• Adjusting the wicking valve if required
• Inspecting the hanging wicks
• Checking mounting points and supports
• Replacing worn wicks when required

The wicks are designed for long service life and can be replaced after extended use if necessary.

Made in the USA

The Cattle Curtain is manufactured in the USA and uses a well-established passive livestock treatment design.

UV-stabilised materials help the unit withstand prolonged outdoor exposure in farming environments.

Cattle Curtain Specifications

Important Use Information

Use approved livestock treatments only: Always follow the insecticide manufacturer's label directions and withholding periods.

Do not use diesel as the carrier oil: Diesel is too low in viscosity for reliable control of the wicking rate.

Check animals regularly: Monitor livestock for skin irritation or other adverse reactions whenever introducing a new treatment mixture.

Keep the installation secure: Ensure the overhead structure and mounting points are strong enough to safely support the filled reservoir and withstand regular livestock contact.