Parasitic Diseases of Goats

Goats are one of the important meat-producing animals in India. There is increased demand for goat milk and meat domestically. Goat rearing practice is gradually shifting from non-commercial to commercial intensive and semi-intensive farming. To keep production on the higher side, better parasitic control measures are necessary. Many species of trematodes, cestodes, and nematodes affect goat production negatively. Numerous broad spectral and narrow spectral anthelmintics are available to address parasitic infestations, but they should be used cautiously to avoid the possible development of anthelmintic-resistant parasitic strains and also to reduce drug residues in livestock products. Control of intermediate hosts and reducing pasture contamination are the other two important aspects in controlling parasitic infestation. The aim of this chapter is to brief the reader about the etiology, life cycle, signs, treatment, and control of most common parasitic infections of the goat.