Farm Animal Welfare

Livestock Parasite Control Welfare

Parasitic disease in livestock causes chronic welfare harm and significant production losses; integrated parasite management reduces both suffering and anthelmintic resistance.

Key Facts

Gastrointestinal nematodes are the most economically important parasites of sheep and cattle
Anthelmintic resistance is widespread and threatens effective parasite control globally
Targeted selective treatment using FAMACHA and fecal egg counts reduces overuse of wormers
Pasture management, grazing rotation, and refugia strategies support integrated control
Sustainable control requires combining management, breeding, and targeted treatment

Welfare Considerations

Parasite-induced chronic ill health causes significant animal suffering that is often underappreciated; integrated parasite management improves welfare while preserving treatment efficacy.

What You Can Do

Support farms using integrated parasite management rather than blanket treatment
Advocate for veterinary guidance on targeted parasite control in assurance schemes
Follow research on anthelmintic resistance and sustainable control strategies