How are piglets treated for lice? - briefly
Piglets receive a topical insecticide—commonly a pyrethroid spray or dip—applied at the label‑specified dose and repeated after 7–10 days to interrupt the lice life cycle. Occasionally, a single oral dose of ivermectin is administered for systemic eradication.
How are piglets treated for lice? - in detail
Treating young swine for lice requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate drug selection, correct administration, and ongoing herd management.
First, confirm infestation by visual inspection of the skin, especially around the neck, ears, and ventral surface. Look for adult lice, nymphs, or eggs attached to hair shafts. In severe cases, excessive scratching and skin lesions may be present.
Second, choose an ectoparasiticide approved for use in piglets. Common options include:
- Topical sprays or spot‑on products containing pyrethroids (e.g., deltamethrin) or organophosphates (e.g., dichlorvos). Apply directly to the back, neck, and base of the ears, ensuring coverage of the entire body surface.
- Pour‑on formulations such as ivermectin or moxidectin, administered at the recommended dose per kilogram of body weight. The solution spreads over the skin after application to the back of the neck.
- Injectable macrocyclic lactones (ivermectin, doramectin) given subcutaneously. Dosage is calculated on live weight; injection provides systemic protection for up to two weeks.
- Oral drenches containing levamisole or ivermectin, useful when handling piglets for injection is impractical. Dose is expressed in milligrams per kilogram, delivered via syringe or medicated feed.
Third, observe strict dosage guidelines. Over‑dosage can cause neurotoxicity, while under‑dosage promotes resistance. Record the exact weight of each piglet, calculate the required volume, and use calibrated syringes or calibrated applicators.
Fourth, implement biosecurity measures to prevent reinfestation:
- Clean and disinfect pens, feeding equipment, and transport crates after treatment.
- Remove manure and replace bedding with fresh material.
- Separate treated piglets from untreated groups for at least 48 hours to avoid cross‑contamination.
- Rotate ectoparasiticides with different modes of action annually to delay resistance development.
Fifth, monitor efficacy. Re‑examine piglets 7–10 days post‑treatment. Persistent lice indicate treatment failure, requiring a second‑line product or a combination therapy. Maintain treatment records, including product name, batch number, dose, and date of administration, to support herd health audits.
Finally, integrate regular health checks into the herd management program. Schedule prophylactic treatments at weaning or before moving piglets to new facilities, aligning with a comprehensive parasite control plan that includes regular sanitation, proper ventilation, and optimal stocking density.