Farm Animal Welfare

Farm Cattle: Tick Control and Welfare

Ticks transmit multiple pathogens to cattle in the UK, and integrated tick control protects animal welfare while managing resistance and environmental impact.

Key Facts

The sheep tick (Ixodes ricinus) is the primary tick species affecting UK cattle
Tick-borne fever and louping ill are significant cattle welfare concerns in affected areas
Cattle show pruritus, self-trauma, and anaemia from heavy tick burdens
Pour-on and injectable acaricides provide protection but resistance is a risk with overuse
Pasture management including avoiding tick-infested vegetation reduces exposure

Welfare Considerations

Heavy tick burdens cause welfare harm through pruritus, skin damage, anaemia, and pathogen transmission. Tick-borne fever causes acute fever, immune suppression, and reduced production. Integrated tick management combining targeted acaricide use with pasture management protects welfare while reducing selection pressure for resistance and minimising environmental contamination.

What You Can Do

Monitor tick burdens on cattle during high-risk spring and autumn periods
Use acaricide treatments strategically based on burden and disease risk
Avoid grazing high-risk tick habitat during peak tick activity periods
Work with your vet to assess tick-borne disease risk in your area
Record tick-associated disease incidence to track management effectiveness