Hoof Rot in Sheep & Goats

All the rain is a blessed event here in Texas for sure, but with the extra rain comes the problems for producers associated with prolonged rainy periods. Hoof rot is one of the diseases you need to be on the look out for. Symptoms include animals walking like their feet hurt and raising one of their limbs as if lame. Sheep and goats may be reluctant to move and in advanced cases they may go off feed and water. The organisms responsible for the infection are most commonly caused by a combination of Dichelobacter nodosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum. There are thought to be about 20 stains of the Dichelobacter here in North America. Treatment should be a three-prong approach:

1. (1)  Trim feet and remove manure and debris from cracks and crevices in the hoof.

2. (2)  Topically treat the entire hoof and infected area with a good foot care product such as

   Zinc Sulfate or Copper Sulfate. Foote cure paste and Hoof ‘n Heel are tried and true topical options. Foot baths of Zinc Sulphate or a 1:19 ratio of Formaldehyde and water are your best options for a walk-through treatment for doctoring a large group or herd. These products are poisonous and should always be kept out of reach of children! Take precaution when using some equine hoof remedies as many are not labeled for food producing animals.

3. (3)  Treat the animal systemically with an antibiotic. LA 200 is still a good remedy but you’ll need to give that shot I.M. every other day for 3 treatments. Follow the dosage recommendations on the bottle and be aware of withdrawal periods for your market lambs and kids.

PRO TIP—Antibiotics are hard on the sperm production in rams and billys. It never fails that we get some early fall rains and the lots are wet and one or more of your ram’s are lame with hoof rot. Many antibiotics are too harsh on fertility to use during breeding season. Inquire with your vet about Zactran antibiotic. I have used it on breeding rams in season with good results. Your local vet may offer some good options for your particular situation. Keep them healthy and good luck with your stock!