Potential Drivers of Cattle Tick Distribution and Challenges in Control Strategies: A Review

Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that significantly threaten cattle health and productivity in tropical and subtropical regions. The distribution of cattle ticks is increasing due to numerous driving factors and shortcomings in its control protocols. Understanding the potential driving factors for their distribution and addressing tick-control challenges are paramount essentials to setting new control measures. However, data remain fragmented. This review aimed to compile available published data on potential drivers influencing cattle tick distribution and obstacles to control protocols. Studies consistently identified climate change, host movement, and habitat suitability as key drivers of tick distribution. Moreover, much of the literature states that tick control approaches have faced certain challenges in most cases. Control strategies face challenges such as acaricide resistance and limited vaccines. Most of the articles recommended that the application of acaricides regularly is a very essential method of tick control. Therefore, from the compiled information, restricting cattle movement, rotating acaricides, and farmer education is recommended. Keywords: Acaricide resistance, Cattle, Control strategies, Driving factors, Tick distribution, Tick infestation