How are pigs treated for lice? - briefly
Pigs infested with lice receive topical insecticides—commonly pyrethroid or organophosphate sprays, dips, or pour‑on formulations—applied according to label‑specified concentrations and contact times. Re‑treatment is typically scheduled after 7–10 days to break the life cycle and prevent reinfestation.
How are pigs treated for lice? - in detail
Effective control of swine lice requires a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, appropriate pharmacological intervention, and environmental management.
Lice species commonly affecting pigs include Haematopinus suis and Linognathus setosus. Infestations are identified by visual inspection of the skin, especially around the ears, neck, and ventral areas, and by collecting specimens for microscopic confirmation. Heavy burdens manifest as irritation, alopecia, and reduced weight gain.
Pharmacological options fall into three categories:
- Topical acaricides – pour‑on formulations containing ivermectin, doramectin, or pyrethroids are applied along the dorsal midline. Recommended doses range from 0.2 mg kg⁻¹ (ivermectin) to 0.5 mg kg⁻¹ (doramectin). Treatment is repeated after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Injectable preparations – subcutaneous injections of macrocyclic lactones (e.g., ivermectin 0.2 mg kg⁻¹) provide systemic coverage. A second dose is administered 14 days later to ensure complete eradication.
- Oral drenches – tablets or liquid formulations of doramectin (0.5 mg kg⁻¹) are given via feed or water. This method is useful for large groups where individual application is impractical.
When selecting a product, consider the following:
- Resistance history – rotate classes of acaricides annually to prevent selection of resistant lice populations.
- Withdrawal periods – adhere to regulatory guidelines for each drug to avoid residue violations in meat.
- Animal health status – avoid using organophosphates in pregnant sows or very young piglets due to toxicity concerns.
Environmental control complements drug therapy:
- Cleaning – remove manure, bedding, and feed residues from pens; disinfect surfaces with a 2 % chlorhexidine solution.
- Drying – maintain low humidity (below 60 %) to reduce lice survival.
- Quarantine – isolate newly introduced or treated animals for at least 14 days, monitoring them for re‑infestation before integration.
Post‑treatment evaluation includes a second visual inspection 5–7 days after the final dose. Persistent lice indicate possible drug resistance or inadequate application, prompting a reassessment of the treatment protocol.
Integrating accurate detection, appropriate drug selection, rotation of acaricide classes, and rigorous pen hygiene provides a comprehensive strategy for eliminating lice infestations in swine herds.