SRUC survey seeks Farmer views on tackling Johne’s Disease in cattle

Farmers are being encouraged to help scientists look at ways to tackle Johne’s Disease – an infection in cattle which is chronic, costly and can be present for years before symptoms appear.  

Researchers at SRUC would like to hear from farmers about the decisions they make and the management practices they use when dealing with Johne’s, which is sometimes referred to as paratuberculosis.    

Farmers can complete an SRUC survey with optional questions without giving any information about themselves or their farm. Results will be shared with the Scottish Government Johne’s Disease Working Group and more widely to the farming community.   

The questions will focus mainly on beef cattle, but dairy farmers are also welcome to take part.  

Dr Kate Lamont from SRUC said: “This survey will play a vital role in helping us understand how to reduce levels of the disease in individual herds across Scotland.  We are keen to hear from as many farmers as possible to make sure we get a wide range of views and experiences, whether you have never had a problem with Johne’s or you have been trying to deal with it for years.  

“We would be very grateful to any farmers who are willing to click on the link and give a few minutes of their time to share their experience and views.  They can pass on any questions that aren’t relevant and a paper version is also available.”  

The survey is part of a larger biosecurity project funded by the Scottish Government. For more details, and to complete the survey please follow the link below.  

To request a paper version, contact Kate Lamont, RAVIC, Inverness Campus, INVERNESS IV2 5NA. Email: kate.lamont@sruc.ac.uk. Phone: 01463 246080. Text: 07385 224334.  

Link to the survey: Survey about Johne's Disease (2026)

Posted by SRUC News on 23/07/2026