The “automed” livestock medication system replaces injector guns with an automatic, traceable, tamper-proof applicator that prevents underdosing and overdosing.

The Vet Group managing director Matt Makin said the automed system used the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) to trace products administered to individual animals.

The applicator could accurately administer medications to livestock such as vaccinations, reproductive hormones and weight-based minerals and drench programs, Mr Makin said.

He said the automed applicator recorded data about the medication administered, which farmers could then read on their computers and smartphones.