Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of cattle farmers in Maharashtra provinces of India on tick-borne diseases: insights for sustainable control strategies.

Abstract

A KAP survey on ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDs) among cattle farmers of Maharashtra state, India was conducted. A total of 137 farmers were surveyed with majority aged 41-50, having 6-20 cattle. Education-wise, most of the farmers had high school or college education. Land holding patterns showed majority of farmers have small farms. Farmers preferred high-yielding exotic breeds. Participants observed ticks on livestock, grasses, and forest areas. Ticks were reported in warm and cold regions, affecting cattle productivity. Farmers showed mixed awareness on tick-borne diseases and management practices. Majority of farmers use good material for making the floor and roof of cattle shed, while few use conventional sheds. Acaricides, medicine, and deworming drugs are procured from government livestock centres with minimal charges. Different protocols of acaricide use were followed for acaricide administration. The fallen ticks after acaricidal treatments were managed differently and manual removal and herbal remedies were preferred methods for tick removal in the event of non-availability of acaricidal drugs.Farmers demonstrated a moderate understanding of tick control, but their management practices could be improved, especially through the adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) approaches. It is recommended to enhance farmer education on tick-borne diseases and encourage more regular use of acaricides alongside improved tick control methods.Compared to other KAP surveys; this study highlighted a stronger reliance on chemicals and a notable knowledge gap regarding disease transmission.