Foot disorders in sheep and goats

Foot disorders in sheep and goats are very common problems, especially in herds that graze in wet, muddy or heavily soiled conditions. They can cause lameness, pain, decreased appetite, reduced milk yield and fertility.

Here is a quick overview of the main disorders:

1. Foot Rot (Fusiformis necrophorum + Dichelobacter nodosus)

Cause: Anaerobic bacteria.

Favorable conditions: dampness, mud, poor hygiene, injuries to the hoof.

Clinical signs:

Pungent odor and rot in the hoof

Detachment of the horn tissue from the hoof

Severe lameness and sometimes prolonged standing on one leg

Treatment:

Thorough cleaning of the hoof

Soaking the foot in a solution of copper sulfate (5%) or zinc sulfate

Antibiotic treatment (such as penicillin or oxytetracycline as directed by a veterinarian)

Isolation of affected animals

Prevention:

Maintaining a dry surface, periodic hoof trimming, disinfection of wet cells.

2. Interdigital Dermatitis / Scald

Cause: Usually Fusobacterium necrophorum only.

Signs:

Redness and swelling between the toes

Pain and slight lameness

Sometimes turns into hoof rot if left untreated

Treatment:

Clean the area, dry it, and soak the foot in a disinfectant solution (copper/zinc sulfate).

3. Foot Abscess

Cause: Bacteria that enter following an injury or improper trimming of the hoof.

Signs:

Local swelling

Local heat

Sometimes pus coming out of the hoof

Treatment:

Careful opening and drainage of the abscess, disinfection and antibiotic treatment as needed.

4. Overgrown / Misshapen Hooves

Cause: Lack of natural wear (especially in closed herds).

Signs:

Abnormal gait

Pressure on unnatural parts of the foot

Treatment:

Regular hoof trimming (every 6–8 weeks in closed herds).

5. Traumatic injuries

Causes: stones, metal wires, thorns, hard ground.

Treatment:

Cleaning, disinfection, rest and antibiotic treatment in case of infection.

General prevention

   •   Maintaining dry and clean conditions in areas where animals stand or sleep.

    •   Regular hoof trimming every few weeks.

    •   Prompt treatment of any lameness, even if mild.

    •  Periodic use of foot baths with antiseptic solutions (copper or zinc sulfate).

    •   Isolation of sick animals to prevent infection.

*It is always advisable to consult a qualified veterinarian.