Farm Animals Diseases – Modes of Transmission of Farm Animal Diseases | Effects of Diseases on the Farm Animals | Methods of Preventing and Control of Animal Diseases JSS 2 Agriculture

AGRICULTURE

THEME – PROCESSES OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

CLASS – JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS – JSS 2 

 

TOPIC – ANIMAL PESTS AND DISEASE CONTROL

LEARNING AREA

1. Farm Animals Diseases

2. Modes of Transmission of Farm Animal Diseases

3. Effects of Diseases on the Farm Animals

4. Methods of Preventing and Control of Animal Diseases

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

1. Pictures and charts of diseases of farm animals, disease organisms.

2. Preserved specimens of diseases causing organisms.

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. list farm animal diseases.

2. state modes of transmission of farm animal diseases.

3. identify symptoms of farm animal diseases.

4. state effects of diseases on the farm animals.

5. state some methods of prevention and control.

 

CONTENTS OF THE LESSON

FARM ANIMAL DISEASES

Farm animal diseases are illness, unhealthy or abnormal condition in the body of farm animals. These illnesses result in changes in the well-being of these animals.

These diseases can have serious implications for both animal health and the agricultural industry as a whole. It is important for farmers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of these diseases and to take appropriate measures to prevent their spread. Vaccination, biosecurity measures, and proper hygiene practices can help to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks on farms.

 

COMMON FARM ANIMAL DISEASES

There are numerous diseases that can affect farm animals, including:

1. Foot and mouth disease

2. Avian influenza

3. African swine fever

4. Bovine tuberculosis

5. Brucellosis

6. Anthrax

7. Mastitis

8. Merino sheep pox

9. Rift Valley fever

10. Mycoplasma pneumonia

 

CLASSIFICATION OF FARM ANIMAL DISEASES

Farm animal diseases can be classified into different categories based on various factors, including the type of pathogen causing the disease, the affected animal species, and the mode of transmission. Here are some common classifications of farm animal diseases:

1. Infectious Diseases – These diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that can be transmitted from one animal to another. Examples include foot and mouth disease, avian influenza, and African swine fever.

2. Non-infectious Diseases – These diseases are caused by factors such as nutritional deficiencies, toxic substances, and physical injuries. Examples include bloat, ketosis, and heat stress.

3. Zoonotic Diseases – These are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Examples include brucellosis, salmonellosis, and ringworm.

4. Respiratory Diseases – These diseases affect the respiratory system of animals and can be caused by infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses. Examples include pneumonia, mycoplasma pneumonia, and contagious caprine pleuropneumonia.

5. Reproductive Diseases – These diseases affect the reproductive system of animals and can result in decreased fertility and reproductive efficiency. Examples include brucellosis, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, and leptospirosis.

6. Parasitic Diseases – These diseases are caused by parasites such as worms, ticks, and mites that can infest the animals and cause various health problems. Examples include parasitic gastroenteritis, liver fluke infection, and sarcoptic mange.

7. Metabolic Diseases – These diseases are caused by imbalances in the animal’s metabolic processes, often related to nutrition. Examples include ketosis, milk fever, and acidosis.

8. Degenerative Diseases – These diseases result from the gradual breakdown of tissues and organs in the body. Examples include arthritis, cataracts, and heart failure.

By classifying farm animal diseases, veterinarians and farmers can better understand the nature of the diseases and develop effective strategies for prevention, control, and treatment.

 

MODES OF TRANSMISSION OF FARM ANIMAL DISEASES 

The modes of transmission of farm animal diseases are as follows:

1. Contact with the infected animals

2. Contact with discharges

3. Vector (tsetse fly), etc.

 

SYMPTOMS OF FARM ANIMAL DISEASES

It is important for farmers to monitor their animals closely for any signs of illness and to consult with a veterinarian if they notice any concerning symptoms. Early detection and treatment of farm animal diseases can help prevent the spread of disease and improve the outcomes for affected animals.

The symptoms of farm animal diseases can vary depending on the specific disease, but some common symptoms that may be observed in farm animals include:

1. Reduced appetite or loss of appetite

2. Decreased milk production

3. Weight loss

4. Coughing or difficulty breathing

5. Diarrhea

6. Lameness or difficulty walking

7. High fever

8. Swelling or inflammation of body parts

9. Discharge from eyes, nose, or other body openings

10. Abnormal behavior or agitation

11. Sores

12. Blood stained

13. Loss of hair

14. Miscarriage

15. Death

 

EFFECTS OF DISEASES ON FARM ANIMALS 

Diseases can have a range of effects on farm animals, depending on the specific disease and the severity of the infection. Some common effects of diseases on farm animals include:

1. It reduces productivity such as decreased in milk production in dairy cows, reduced weight gain in meat-producing animals, and decreased egg production in poultry.

2. It results in financial losses for farmers.

3. It impacts the reproductive health of farm animals leading to reduced fertility, abortions, or stillbirths.

4. It weakens the immune system of farm animals, making them more susceptible to other infections and illnesses.

5. It causes pain, discomfort, and suffering, affecting the welfare and well-being of the animals.

6. It leads to high mortality rates among farm animals, resulting in significant losses for farmers.

7. It spreads diseases quickly among farm animals, leading to outbreaks that can affect an entire herd or flock.

8. It affects the quality and safety of animal products, such as meat, milk, and eggs, posing risks to human health.

 

METHODS OF PREVENTION AND CONTROL

Prevention and control of diseases in farm animals are vital to maintain animal health, productivity, and welfare. There are several methods that farmers can use to prevent and control diseases in their livestock:

1. Biosecurity measures – Implementing biosecurity protocols on the farm can help prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. This includes controlling access to the farm, practicing proper sanitation, and quarantining new animals before introducing them to the herd or flock.

2. Vaccination – Vaccination is an effective way to protect farm animals against specific diseases. Farmers should work with their veterinarians to develop a vaccination program tailored to the specific needs of their livestock.

3. Nutrition and management – Providing animals with a balanced diet and proper nutrition can help boost their immune system and make them more resistant to diseases. Good management practices, such as maintaining clean housing and proper ventilation, can also help prevent disease transmission.

4. Monitoring and surveillance – Regularly monitoring the health of farm animals and conducting surveillance for common diseases can help detect and control outbreaks early. Farmers should be vigilant for signs of illness in their animals and promptly seek veterinary advice if needed.

5. Quarantine and isolation – Isolating sick animals and implementing quarantine measures for newly arrived animals can help prevent the spread of diseases within the herd or flock.

6. Treatment – In cases where animals do become sick, prompt diagnosis and treatment by a veterinarian are essential to control the disease and prevent further spread. Farmers should follow the prescribed treatment plan and properly administer medications.

7. Education and training – Farmers should stay informed about common diseases affecting farm animals and seek training on disease prevention and control strategies. Collaboration with veterinarians, extension services, and other experts can help ensure proper management of disease risks.

 

LESSON PRESENTATION

TEACHER’S ACTIVITIES

The teacher,

1. displays pictures and charts of disease organisms and dead animals.

2. develops charts on casual organisms, symptoms and animals affected.

3. invites veterinary personnel as a guest speaker.

4. summarizes the lesson on the board.

 

STUDENT’S ACTIVITIES

The students,

1. visit abattoir to observe meat inspection.

2. discuss animal disease causing organisms and disease symptoms.

3. carryout good sanitation practices on the school farm animals.

4. observe charts and pictures and familiarize themselves with the symptoms and animals affected

5. copy board summary.

 

LESSON EVALUATION

Teacher asks students to,

1. list five farm animal diseases.

2. mention four organisms that cause farm animal diseases.

3. state four modes of transmission of farm animal diseases.

4. describe three symptoms of farms animal diseases.

5. state three methods of prevention/control of farm animal diseases.