A qualitative investigation of the attitudes and practices of farmers and veterinarians in Wales regarding anthelmintic resistance in cattle.

Abstract

Despite the importance of stakeholder practices in the potential development of anthelmintic resistance (AR) in livestock, there is a lack of qualitative research examining the attitudes and behaviours of anthelmintic end users and their professional advisors. Given the increasing importance of developing anthelmintic resistance patterns in cattle, and the need to avoid AR in cattle developing to the same extent as it has in sheep, the objective of this qualitative study was therefore to assess the factors affecting anthelmintic product choice and usage, and awareness and attitudes towards AR in cattle in north Wales. Twelve semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted with nine cattle farmers and three veterinarians. Farmer knowledge and engagement with the issue of AR in cattle in this study was low. A lack of perceived threat was apparent, with only a demonstrable problem at farm level the likely incentive to change future worming protocols and practice. Cost had a very prominent influence on anthelmintic product choice, but importance was also given to product recommendations from social farming networks and other non-veterinary advisory sources. A more proactive approach should be taken to raise farmers' and veterinarians' awareness of increasing levels of AR in cattle and improve anthelmintic governance.