Alternative to Antibiotics Used in Sheep Production

Abstract

Sheep play a significant role in agriculture, serving as a primary source of meat, milk, and wool fiber. They constitute a unique class of animals distinguished by their specialized digestive organs. As our population increases, there is a high demand for sheep meat and products from developed and developing countries. In livestock production, disease poses a significant challenge, and the use of antimicrobial and antiparasitic drugs facilitates the control of infections, thereby improving animal welfare, health, and productivity. The use of antimicrobials in sheep farming has become prevalent and has led to antimicrobial resistance. This chapter will focus on the alternatives to antimicrobials used in sheep and how they benefit sheep health and production.