Parasite burdens cause significant suffering in farm animals. Integrated parasite management that reduces chemical use while protecting welfare improves both animal welfare and anthelmintic sustainability.
Parasitic disease causes chronic suffering through nutrient loss, anaemia, immune suppression and weight loss. Heavily parasitised lambs show dullness, scouring, bottle jaw and reduced thrive that represent significant welfare deterioration. However, blanket anthelmintic treatment drives resistance, reducing future treatment efficacy. Integrated parasite management balances welfare and sustainability: treating only animals with high burden (FAMACHA, faecal egg count), maintaining refugia and using pasture management to reduce infection pressure. This approach maintains welfare while preserving treatment effectiveness for future generations.