Looking for the top cattle fly control rubs to reduce pests and keep livestock comfortable? This guide highlights five practical options, focusing on ease of use, durability, and suitability for different farm setups. Best for pasture stays, feed yards, or along alleyways where cows frequently pass by. The table below summarizes the five picks to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neogen Prozap 5079710 Bovi-Rub Backrubber 5′ | Prozap | Ranches with frequent cattle movements | Durable backrubber designed for outdoor use |
| Neogen CHEMTECH 048-1109670 698300 Prozap Backrubber & Pour-On, Blue, 2.5 Gal | Neogen | Mixed herd operations needing backrubber plus pour-on option | Ready-to-use combination for rubbers and pour-on application |
| DUNCAN’S FAMILY FARM STORE Cattle Oiler Back Rub – 4 Gallon Tank- 45″ Mop | DUNCAN’S FAMILY FARM STORE | Facilities needing a large-capacity back rub setup | Made in the USA; sizable capacity and width |
| Atticus Gardatis Pour-On Insecticide with IGR (0.5 Gal) | Atticus | Herds needing effective pour-on and IGR combo | Dual active ingredients target multiple pests |
| Farnam SimpliFly Feed Through Fly Control Daily Supplement for Horses | Farnam | Horses or mixed herds where manure-based control is desired | Palatable pellets that prevent fly lifecycle in manure |
Neogen Prozap 5079710 Bovi-Rub Backrubber 5′
The 5-foot Neogen Prozap Bovi-Rub Backrubber is designed to be mounted in high-traffic areas where cattle commonly pass. Best for operations needing a compact, durable rub with easy integration near water, mineral feeders, or alleyways. The design emphasizes longevity in outdoor conditions, reducing maintenance. Good for farms seeking a straightforward rub system with reliable durability. Consider placing away from direct, harsh weather if exposure may shorten life expectancy.
Prozap 5079610 Bovi-Rub Backrubber 10′, White
This 10-foot backrubber offers extended reach for larger herds or wider passageways. Best for facilities needing longer rub lines than standard models, allowing multiple cows to rub simultaneously. The white finish helps visibility and wear tracking. A potential limitation is space requirements for installation and maintenance access in tight areas.
DUNCAN’S FAMILY FARM STORE Cattle Oiler Back Rub
This back rub with a 4-gallon tank and 45″ width is ideal for mid-sized operations looking for a robust, ready-to-use option. The US-made construction emphasizes durability and straightforward setup near frequent cattle traffic. Best for farms prioritizing a larger capacity unit that reduces refills. Limitation: bulkier footprint may require more stable mounting space.
Atticus Gardatis Pour-On Insecticide with IGR
Gardatis Pour-On combines 5.0% permethrin with 3.0% diflubenzuron, offering a dual-action approach for cattle and horses. Best for herds requiring both insecticide and an insect growth regulator for ongoing protection. Choose this if you want a ready-to-apply pour-on solution alongside rub options. Caution: verify label directions for lactating dairy cattle and follow safety guidelines for topical application.
Farnam SimpliFly Feed Through Fly Control
This horse-focused feed-through fly control uses diflubenzuron to interrupt the fly lifecycle in manure. Best for barns, pastures, and stalls where daily feed is a stable delivery point. It provides ongoing fly control by targeting larvae in manure rather than the animal directly. Limitation: requires consistent inclusion in daily feed for effectiveness.
Buying Guide
- What setup do you have? If you need a quick-to-install rub, prefer backrubber options like Neogen Prozap models. For large pastures, longer rub lines or higher capacity units may be better choices.
- Are you using pour-on products as well? If yes, products like Gardatis offer a dual-action approach, combining pour-on insecticide with IGR for broader coverage.
- Do you operate with horses or mixed livestock? Some products are formulated for multiple species or are specifically labeled for horses and cattle. Check labels for compatibility and dosing directions.
- Do you prioritize ease of maintenance? Rub back setups with higher capacity tanks reduce refills but may require more mounting space. Consider your barn or alley dimensions.
- Is manure-based control acceptable? Feed-through products like SimpliFly target larvae in manure, reducing fly populations at the source, which can complement rubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a backrubber and how does it help with fly control?
A backrubber is a movable or fixed device that cattle rub against, often releasing repellent or insecticidal formulations onto the animal’s hide to deter flies.
- Can I use multiple products together?
Yes, many operations combine rubs with pour-on insecticides or feed-through supplements to target different stages of the fly lifecycle.
- Are these products safe for lactating dairy cattle?
Always follow the product label and veterinarian guidance. Some formulations are labeled for dairy use; others may not be suitable for lactating animals.
- How do I choose between a backrubber and a pour-on product?
Backrubbers excel for non-handling, high-traffic areas and ongoing exposure, while pour-ons provide direct application with systemic coverage for specific animals.
- What maintenance should I plan for rub setups?
Inspect mounting hardware, clean any buildup, and replace worn rubs periodically to maintain effective contact and coverage.