Small Ruminants’ Production System Characteristics and Their Influence on Antimicrobial Use, Alternatives, and Resistance in Nigeria

Background As the threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) escalates globally, the influence of indiscriminate antimicrobial use (AMU) in livestock cannot be overlooked. Antimicrobial use practices are continually explored in larger food-producing animals; however, small ruminants (sheep and goats) receive comparatively less research attention. Our study addresses this gap by investigating small ruminant production practices in Nigeria and exploring how they affect the use of antimicrobials and alternatives. We adopted a mixed-methods design, combining semi-structured questionnaires with focus group discussions. Results Of the 785 questionnaire respondents, 68% of farmers never vaccinated their flock. Numerous health problems were regularly experienced by animals, including peste de petits ruminants (PPR), mastitis, and dermatophilosis. Diseases were mostly self-managed with antibiotics and herbs rather than through reliance on veterinary care. More farmers (48%) used antibiotics than herbal remedies (14%) over the previous three months. Farmers' use of herbs was affected by their having low awareness of available options and how to use them appropriately. Perceived effectiveness also influenced farmers' choice between antibiotics and herbs, while economic considerations also led them to sell off sick animals before or during treatment. Among farmers who used animal health services, more farmers (59%) consulted unlicensed para-veterinarians and drugstore vendors rather than licensed government and private veterinarians (36%), a disparity attributed to the unavailability of qualified veterinary doctors. Farmers had poor knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards AMU and AMR. Conclusions We recommend conducting further studies to identify and investigate the efficacy of currently used herbs in treating common diseases. There is a crucial need to improve farmers’ access to vaccines, veterinary care, and laboratory diagnostics. Barriers that hinder better compliance with regulations that govern the use of nonprescribed antimicrobials should be explored. Awareness programmes could be conducted to improve farmers’ awareness on AMR and appropriate disease preventive practices.