Rabies in Cattle: The Overlooked Threat and Its Impact on One Health and Farm Economics

Rabies, a devastating zoonotic disease, continues to exert a profound impact on livestock, particularly cattle, across India. This chapter explores the far-reaching economic consequences of rabies outbreaks, highlighting both direct losses—such as livestock mortality, diminished milk yields, and rising veterinary expenses—and the broader disruption to rural livelihoods. Through detailed case studies from various Indian states, the chapter reveals the heavy financial burden on farmers and the cascading effects on the agricultural economy. It underscores the pressing need for robust rabies control strategies, including widespread vaccination, enhanced disease surveillance, and farmer education, to curb future outbreaks. Embracing the One Health framework, the chapter emphasizes the vital connection between human, animal, and environmental health. A holistic approach to tackling rabies will not only safeguard livestock and farm revenues but also enhance public health resilience. The chapter calls for coordinated efforts between veterinarians, policymakers, and farmers, offering a pathway toward sustainable livestock management and greater economic stability in rabies-prone regions.