Alpacas’ population in Poland has attained 5000 individuals. From 2020 alpacas are recognized as farm
animals in Poland. This ruminant is increasingly popular, but still poorly known compared to other farm animals
(cattle, sheep, goats). The aim of this review is to present the specificity of alpacas in terms of adequate welfare
of these animals. To provide an appropriate welfare level, the knowledge about the species’ biology and typical
behaviour is needed. The basis for assessment of the animal’s health status is the knowledge of basic physiological
indicators, whose divergence from reference values is often the first symptom of many diseases. The health
and welfare of virtually all animal species are influenced by infestations by endo- and exoparasites, which can
cause many disorders and serious diseases. The growing alpaca population size necessitates investigation of
this species, which will help future and current owners to breed these animals and prompt veterinarians to
apply appropriate treatment of alpacas bred in Poland.