Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Liver Fluke Integrated Control

Liver fluke is a major welfare and production challenge for sheep, requiring integrated management combining pasture management, diagnostics, and targeted treatment.

Key Facts

Liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) causes significant pain and liver damage
Climate change is extending the fluke season in many regions
Mud snail habitats on farms are key risk areas for transmission
Faecal egg counting helps target treatment and reduce resistance
Acute fluke can kill sheep within weeks if untreated

Welfare Considerations

Untreated liver fluke causes progressive pain, weight loss, and in acute cases rapid death. Integrated control combining habitat management and targeted treatment significantly reduces welfare impacts.

What You Can Do

Learn about liver fluke risk mapping on farms
Support fluke testing programs that reduce unnecessary treatment
Advocate for integrated parasite management on sheep farms