Welfare Science

Animal Welfare and Antibiotic Resistance: Linkages

The connection between animal welfare and antimicrobial resistance is increasingly documented, with improved welfare reducing the need for antibiotic treatments.

Key Facts

Approximately 70% of global antibiotics are used in livestock production
High-density, stressed animals are more susceptible to disease requiring antibiotic treatment
Countries with higher farm animal welfare standards show lower rates of antibiotic use
WHO classifies antimicrobial resistance as one of the greatest threats to global health

Welfare Considerations

Improving farm animal welfare is not only the right thing to do for animals - it is also a critical component of the response to antimicrobial resistance. Welfare and public health interests align strongly in this domain, creating opportunities for coalition-building across advocacy communities.

What You Can Do

Support the link between welfare improvement and antibiotic reduction in advocacy
Choose higher-welfare animal products as a contribution to AMR reduction
Engage with policymakers on the welfare-AMR connection in livestock policy