How to get rid of lice on goats? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved lice control product (spray, pour‑on, or oral medication) according to label directions, then thoroughly clean and disinfect bedding, pens, and equipment to prevent reinfestation.
How to get rid of lice on goats? - in detail
Effective control of caprine lice requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, environmental sanitation, and ongoing monitoring.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the animal’s coat and skin. Look for small, grayish insects moving on the hair, as well as itching, hair loss, or scabs. Collect a few specimens for identification if possible, because different species may respond to different products.
Immediate treatment options
- Topical insecticides: Apply a licensed pour‑on or spray containing pyrethrins, permethrin, or carbaryl. Follow the label for dosage per kilogram of body weight, ensuring even coverage of the entire body, especially the neck, back, and hindquarters. Repeat after 7–10 days to break the life cycle.
- Systemic agents: Use injectable ivermectin or doramectin at the recommended dose (e.g., 0.2 mg/kg subcutaneously). These compounds circulate in the bloodstream, killing parasites that feed on the host. Observe the withdrawal interval before milking or meat consumption.
- Natural alternatives: Apply a diluted solution of neem oil (5 % v/v) or a mixture of eucalyptus oil (2 % v/v) and water. These botanicals possess repellant properties and can reduce mild infestations, but they should be supplemented with a chemical treatment for heavy loads.
Environmental sanitation
- Shearing and grooming: Remove the fleece, clean the skin with a mild antiseptic soap, and discard all hair clippings. This eliminates a large portion of the existing population.
- Bedding management: Replace straw, wood shavings, or other bedding material weekly. Clean pens with a disinfectant effective against arthropods, such as a 1 % bleach solution, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Pasture rotation: Move the herd to a clean pasture for at least two weeks, allowing any fallen lice to die off in the absence of a host.
Preventive measures
- Regular inspections: Conduct visual checks every two weeks, focusing on high‑risk periods such as after lambing or during humid weather.
- Scheduled prophylaxis: Administer a low‑dose ivermectin injection or pour‑on every 6–8 weeks during peak season, adhering to veterinary guidance.
- Quarantine new arrivals: Isolate newly purchased or rescued goats for a minimum of 30 days, treating them pre‑emptively before integration.
Monitoring and record‑keeping
Maintain a log that records treatment dates, products used, dosages, and observed outcomes. Note any adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or reduced feed intake, and adjust protocols accordingly. Regular data review helps identify patterns, evaluate efficacy, and refine the control program.
By integrating prompt therapeutic action, thorough cleaning of the environment, and disciplined preventive practices, lice infestations on goats can be eliminated and kept from recurring.