Comparing animal and human antibiotic use is complicated. That’s why the proper context is so important.
Antibiotic resistance, bacteria that evolve to the point they are not easily killed by antibiotics, is a scientifically complex subject and a concern for human and animal health. A new online resource does an excellent job explaining antibiotic resistance.
Animals raised for food live in herds or flocks, share water and feed troughs, and seek close contact with one another by licking, laying on each other and even rubbing snouts and noses. This can spread illnesses rapidly. Waiting for animals to show symptoms of an illness before beginning treatment is often too late. Swift action can prevent the spread of disease and result in animals receiving fewer antibiotics than they would have had they not received preventive medication.