Exploring the Mental Model of Cattle Farmers in Disease Prevention and Control Practices.

Yong Suit-B,Jonathan Epstein,Abd Rahaman Yasmin,Steven Eric Krauss,Siti Zubaidah Ramanoon,Peck Toung Ooi,Latiffah Hassan

doi:10.3390/vetsci7010027

Yong Suit-B, Jonathan Epstein + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci7010027

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Abstract

Farmers play an integral role in minimizing disease threats and managing ongoing diseases on their farms. Various environmental factors influence the decision-making processes of farmers. Deciphering the mental models of farmers allows us to understand the motivations and reasons behind disease prevention and control choices. This study aimed to explore the mental models of cattle farmers in implementing disease prevention and control practices. Using qualitative in-depth, semi-structured interviews, seven cattle farmers from a university’s foster farm extension program were sampled. Interview transcripts were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results revealed 23 dimensions comprising the mental model of cattle farmers. The dimensions were conceptualized under four major themes. Farmers were most influenced by perceived risk of disease, perceived effectiveness and benefits of disease prevention and control practices, experience, knowledge and emotions, subjective norms and perceived economic loss. The decision-making processes of farmers are complex and are influenced by various factors. While additional research is needed to confirm the findings using quantitative methods and larger sample sizes, insights gained from the study can be used as inputs to tailor communication and training strategies for improved disease prevention and control interventions.

Highlights

There is an estimated 710,481 cattle in Malaysia [1]
The present study aims to: (1) explore the mental model of Malaysian cattle farmers in implementing disease prevention and control practices and (2) identify other challenges to broaden our understanding on the circumstances surrounding disease prevention and control
The author is familiar with cattle farming and disease prevention and control practices

Summary

Introduction

There is an estimated 710,481 cattle in Malaysia [1]. Cattle are raised in different production systems, varying from intensive, semi-intensive, tree-crop integration and extensive systems [4,5]. Semi-intensively or extensively raised cattle are free to roam, enhancing the probability of contact with infectious materials between diseased herds, cattle and wildlife or other domestic animals. The ongoing strategy to improve food security by transforming small-scale ruminant farms to viable commercial-scale farms [6] increases farm density and animal movements. This agriculture intensification may enhance disease risks to humans and animals, especially when accompanied by poor management and hygiene [7]

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