Prevalence, knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding tick infestation in large ruminants of district Sheikhupura,...

Ticks (Acari: Ixodoidea) are obligatory ectoparasites that pose a significant threat to livestock due to their hematophagous feeding habits and their role in the transmission of numerous diseases. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of tick infection in cattle and buffaloes in Punjab, Pakistan's Sheikhupura District and to analyze livestock farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) about tick control. From April to September 2021, 534 cattle and buffaloes were analyzed in addition to conducting structured interviews with farm owners. Results of this study demonstrate that Sheikhupura has a comparatively low prevalence of tick infestation as compared to other areas of the country. There was no statistically significant difference in tick infestation between buffaloes (20.28%) and cattle (22.18%), suggesting that both species are equally susceptible. However, statistically significant differences were observed in the seasonal distribution of ticks, with a marked increase in infestation during the summer months (July-August; p < 0.05), indicating a strong influence of climatic conditions. Moreover, significant breed-specific differences were noted (p < 0.05), as hybrid buffaloes and Desi cattle exhibited higher infestation rates compared to indigenous breeds, suggesting that genetic and management factors may play a crucial role in host susceptibility. Additionally, geographically distinct variations in tick prevalence among tehsils were statistically significant (p < 0.05), underscoring the impact of localized environmental conditions on tick distribution. The widespread behavior of manually removing ticks (95.88%), which multiplies the risk of disease transmission, indicates that even though 91.02% of farmers questioned were aware of ticks, this awareness was not translated into effective control measures. There are still gaps in effective tick control, even though 58.80% of respondents claimed they used anti-tick medications. The unsafe tick removal techniques draw attention to the necessity of educational initiatives that encourage safer handling techniques. Future control initiatives in Pakistan's endemic areas might benefit from the important insights this study offers about the dynamics of tick infestations and livestock management techniques.