Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Ectoparasite Welfare Management

Ectoparasites including sheep scab mites, lice, keds, and ticks cause significant welfare harm requiring appropriate prevention, monitoring, and treatment strategies.

Key Facts

Sheep keds are wingless flies that cause intense irritation through blood-feeding
Tick infestations can transmit Louping Ill, tick-borne fever, and tick pyaemia
Integrated ectoparasite management combines prevention, monitoring, and targeted treatment
Biosecurity for incoming sheep is essential to prevent introduction of new ectoparasites
Annual dipping provides effective protection against multiple ectoparasite species

Welfare Considerations

Ectoparasite infestation causes chronic pruritus, blood loss, stress, and disease transmission that cause significant ongoing suffering. Integrated management approaches that prevent infestation and treat promptly when detected are essential for sheep welfare.

What You Can Do

Implement quarantine and treatment protocols for all incoming sheep
Conduct regular flock checks for ectoparasite signs during high-risk periods
Work with your vet to design an integrated ectoparasite management programme