How to treat a calf for lice? - briefly
Apply a veterinary‑approved topical dip or spray containing pyrethrin or permethrin, adhering to the label dosage for the calf’s weight, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to interrupt the lice life cycle. Clean and disinfect the housing and treat all co‑habiting animals simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.
How to treat a calf for lice? - in detail
Effective management of a lice infestation in a calf requires a systematic approach: identification, preparation, treatment, and monitoring.
First, confirm the presence of lice by inspecting the animal’s coat, especially around the neck, shoulders, and tail base. Look for small, grayish insects, their nits attached to hair shafts, and signs of irritation such as scratching or crusty skin.
Second, isolate the affected calf to prevent spread to the herd. Clean the environment by removing manure, bedding, and any contaminated materials. Wash the animal with a mild, non‑medicated shampoo to eliminate debris and reduce the number of insects before applying a therapeutic product.
Third, select an appropriate anti‑lice agent. Options include:
- Topical insecticides (e.g., pyrethrin‑based sprays, organophosphate dips). Follow label instructions for concentration and volume; typically 5 mL per 100 kg of body weight, applied evenly over the entire body, avoiding the eyes and mucous membranes.
- Systemic products (e.g., ivermectin injectable). Dose according to manufacturer guidelines, usually 0.2 mg/kg body weight, administered subcutaneously. Systemic treatment reaches parasites residing in deeper skin layers.
- Natural alternatives (e.g., diatomaceous earth dusted onto the coat, or a diluted neem oil spray). Use only formulations proven safe for bovine use; apply to dry skin and repeat every 48 hours for three applications.
Fourth, apply the chosen product. For topical sprays, hold the nozzle 15–20 cm from the skin, spray in a sweeping motion to ensure thorough coverage, and then gently rub the coat to distribute the solution. For dips, immerse the calf in a trough containing the prescribed concentration for the recommended time, usually 5–10 minutes. After treatment, rinse the animal with clean water only if the product label permits; otherwise, allow the solution to air‑dry.
Fifth, implement a post‑treatment regimen. Re‑inspect the calf after 24 hours, then again at 7‑day intervals for three weeks. If live lice persist, repeat the treatment cycle using a different class of insecticide to avoid resistance. Maintain strict hygiene: wash bedding weekly, disinfect equipment, and apply an environmental insecticide to the housing area according to label rates.
Finally, record all interventions—product name, dosage, application date, and observed outcomes—to facilitate herd‑level management and veterinary review. This documentation supports timely adjustments and ensures compliance with withdrawal periods for meat and milk production.