Foot Problems In Sheep
Lameness affects most farms at some time or another. It can cause weight loss and
poor condition in finishing lambs; poor libido and fertility in tups, and weight loss
and poor milk production in ewes, all resulting in a loss of income. Many flocks are
facing a hard enough time this spring as it is - don’t let lameness further reduce
productivity this year. The key is to identify the types of lameness affecting your
flock in order to instigate the most effective treatment and control measures.
Scald
Scald is one of the most common causes of
lameness outbreaks in flocks, and will be
familiar to most sheep producers. It is caused
by a bacterium called Fusobacterium
necrophorum (same cause as Footrot) which
thrives in wet environments, either outdoors
or indoor-housing on straw. It is usually mild
with evidence of swelling and a thin white film
found in-between the digits. There is no
under-running of the hoof and no foul smell. Treatment with oxytetracyline spray is
usually successful however in large outbreaks, footbathing with 10% zinc sulphate or
3% formalin can provide effective control.
Footrot
Footrot is a very painful condition where the
hoof horn separates from the foot and the sole
becomes under run. There is a characteristic
smell and sheep may become non-weight
bearing. There are many preventative strategies
and treatment options. Vaccination (Footvax) is
particularly effective. Antibiotic footbaths or
even blanket treatment with injectable
antibiotics may be appropriate. Treatment of
individuals must not be overlooked, with care
being taken not to over-trim or spread infection
through poor hygiene. Chronically affected ewes should be culled. For advice on the
best option for your farm, please speak to one of our vets.
Contagious Ovine Digital Dermatitis
(CODD)
CODD is a relatively new disease and may
sometimes be mistaken for Footrot. It is
characterised by the under-running of the
hoof horn from the coronary band down to
the toe. There may also be an inch of hair
loss just above the coronary band. It is
important to distinguish from Footrot. It is
usually just one hoof affected on the foot
and the inter-digital skin is not affected.
The damaged hoof will often re-grow irregularly, and culling is usually the best
option. Treatment with long-acting antibiotics may help in the early stages, or with
antibiotic footbaths such as lincomycin. Prevention is always better than cure, so
make sure any new stock is suitably quarantined for 4 weeks, with regular
inspections and footbathing.