What to do if piglets have lice? - briefly
Isolate the affected piglets and apply a veterinary‑approved lice treatment (e.g., ivermectin or permethrin) following the product’s dosage instructions, repeating after the recommended interval. Thoroughly clean and disinfect pens, bedding, and equipment to prevent reinfestation.
What to do if piglets have lice? - in detail
When piglets show signs of lice, begin with a thorough inspection. Separate affected animals from the herd to prevent rapid spread. Use a fine-toothed comb or a bright light to locate adult insects, nymphs, and eggs along the hair shafts, especially near the neck, ears, and abdomen. Record the severity of infestation to guide treatment intensity.
Administer an approved ectoparasiticide according to the manufacturer’s dosage chart for the piglets’ weight. Common options include topical sprays containing pyrethrins, organophosphates, or ivermectin‑based formulations. Apply the product evenly over the entire body, ensuring coverage of the head, limbs, and underbelly. Observe the withdrawal period and any contraindications for lactating sows.
After treatment, repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first dose. Conduct a second inspection 48 hours post‑application to verify mortality of adult insects. If live lice persist, consider a second‑line product or a combination therapy, consulting a veterinarian for guidance.
Maintain hygiene to curb re‑infestation. Clean and disinfect pens, bedding, and feeding equipment. Replace straw or bedding material regularly, and ensure proper ventilation to reduce humidity, which favors lice development. Implement a routine health‑check schedule, examining piglets weekly for at least one month following treatment.
Record all interventions, product batch numbers, and observation dates in a herd health log. This documentation supports traceability, facilitates future outbreak response, and assists veterinary professionals in evaluating treatment efficacy.