How can goats be treated for lice? - briefly
Use a veterinary‑approved topical insecticide (e.g., pyrethrin, selamectin) at the label‑specified dose, repeat in 7–10 days, and treat bedding and pasture with an appropriate spray; a neem‑oil or diluted permethrin wash can serve as an alternative for mild infestations.
How can goats be treated for lice? - in detail
Effective control of lice in goats requires accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, and environmental management.
First, confirm infestation by examining the fleece, especially behind the ears, under the neck, and around the tail. Look for live insects, nits attached to hair shafts, and excessive scratching or wool loss.
Select a product approved for caprine use. Common options include:
- Topical pour‑on insecticides (e.g., pyrethrin‑based solutions). Apply directly to the skin after shearing, covering the entire body from head to tail. Follow label dosage, typically 0.5 ml per kilogram of body weight.
- Injectable organophosphates (e.g., diazinon). Administer subcutaneously at 0.05 ml per kilogram. Observe withdrawal periods for meat and milk.
- Oral ivermectin formulations. Dose at 0.2 mg per kilogram; repeat after 7–10 days to break the life cycle.
- Topical amitraz sprays. Apply to the backline and limbs at 0.2 ml per kilogram; repeat in two weeks.
When using chemical agents, wear protective gloves and eyewear, and keep treated animals isolated for at least 24 hours to prevent cross‑contamination. Record the product name, batch number, dosage, and treatment date for traceability.
Environmental measures complement medication:
- Shear or clip heavily infested animals to reduce lice habitat.
- Clean and disinfect housing, feeding troughs, and water containers with a 1 % bleach solution or commercial disinfectant.
- Bedding replacement at least weekly; use dry, clean straw or wood shavings.
- Quarantine new stock for a minimum of 30 days and treat prophylactically before integration.
Natural alternatives may be employed when chemical use is restricted:
- Diatomaceous earth applied to the fleece at a rate of 10 g per animal, repeated every 3 days.
- Essential oil blends containing eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree, diluted to 1 % and sprayed onto the skin; monitor for irritation.
Monitor treatment efficacy by re‑examining the herd 5–7 days after the first application. Persistent lice indicate possible resistance; rotate to a different class of insecticide and consult a veterinarian for susceptibility testing.
Maintain a regular health‑check schedule, incorporating lice inspection into monthly herd assessments. Consistent vigilance, correct drug selection, and thorough sanitation together ensure long‑term control of caprine lice infestations.