How to remove lice from small piglets?

How to remove lice from small piglets? - briefly

Apply a swine‑safe pyrethrin or ivermectin spray to the whole body of the piglets, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, and then comb them with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Keep the environment clean and dry to avoid re‑infestation.

How to remove lice from small piglets? - in detail

Treating a lice infestation in neonatal swine requires swift, systematic action to prevent spread and minimize discomfort. Begin by isolating the affected piglets from the herd to limit transmission. Use clean, dry bedding and maintain optimal temperature and humidity to support recovery.

1. Inspection and identification

   • Examine the skin, especially around the ears, neck, and ventral areas, for live lice, nits, or excessive scratching.
   • Confirm species (e.g., Haematopinus suis) to select the appropriate ectoparasiticide.

2. Selection of medication

   • Choose a product labeled for use in piglets, such as a topical pyrethrin‑based spray, a pour‑on formulation containing ivermectin, or a macrocyclic lactone injection.
   • Verify dosage according to body weight; for a 2‑kg piglet, a typical pyrethrin spray may require 0.5 ml per animal.

3. Application procedure

   • Restrain the piglet gently but securely to avoid injury.
   • Apply the medication evenly over the dorsal surface, ensuring coverage of the neck, back, and tail base.
   • For pour‑on solutions, part the hair and direct the liquid onto the skin; for sprays, maintain a 10‑cm distance to achieve a fine mist.
   • Allow the product to dry before returning the animal to its pen.

4. Environmental control

   • Clean and disinfect housing, feeding equipment, and any tools used during treatment.
   • Replace bedding with fresh material; consider a low‑temperature wash for reusable items.
   • Treat the pen with an approved environmental insecticide if heavy infestation is suspected.

5. Follow‑up monitoring

   • Re‑examine piglets 48 hours after treatment; repeat application if live lice persist, adhering to product withdrawal intervals.
   • Continue weekly inspections for at least three weeks to confirm eradication.
   • Record all treatments, dosages, and observations for herd health management.

6. Preventive measures

   • Implement routine ectoparasite surveillance in breeding and farrowing units.
   • Apply prophylactic treatments to sows before farrowing to reduce vertical transmission.
   • Maintain strict biosecurity: limit external animal contact, control rodent populations, and enforce hygiene protocols for personnel.

By following this protocol, caretakers can effectively eliminate lice from young swine, safeguard animal welfare, and prevent recurrence within the herd.