animalhealth

Animal health is the state of well-being of animals in which they are free from disease and able to function according to their species needs. It covers the prevention, detection, and management of illnesses, injuries, and other health problems, as well as the welfare and productivity of animal populations. Veterinary medicine, husbandry practices, nutrition, genetics, and environmental management all contribute to maintaining animal health across different species, from companion animals to farm animals and wildlife.

Prevention is a core focus and includes biosecurity measures, vaccination programs, parasite control, good housing and handling, and nutrition. Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment, laboratory testing, and imaging; treatment may involve medicines, surgical procedures, and supportive care. Surveillance systems monitor disease occurrence and trends, enabling early warning, while control measures such as quarantine, movement restriction, and, when necessary, eradication programs aim to reduce spread. Animal welfare is closely linked to health, with appropriate pain relief, enrichment, and humane handling supporting better outcomes.

Animal health has direct implications for public health, as many diseases can be transmitted from animals to people (zoonoses). It is addressed within a One Health framework and coordinated by international bodies such as the World Organisation for Animal Health, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the World Health Organization. The field intersects agriculture, food security, and trade, and faces challenges including antimicrobial resistance, climate change, and emerging pathogens. Ongoing research and policy efforts seek to strengthen diagnostics, vaccines, and resilient health systems for animals and humans.