AVPG - Cattle and horses flipbook
The Australian Veterinary Prescribing Guidelines cattle and horse flipbook, detailing antimicrobials for use in cattle and horses.
This page will outline guidelines for antimicrobial use for the following bovine foot diseases:
- Footrot
- Foot abscess
- Digital dermatitis ('hairy heelwart')
Footrot
Diagnostics
Diagnosis can be made from clinical signs alone. The foot must be lifted for examination in all cases. Ensure no foreign body is present in the interdigital space.
Treatment
Topical therapy with antibacterial disinfectant. Procaine penicillin is highly effective. Florfenicol is a suitable alternative in beef cattle.
Duration of therapy
A single dose of florfenicol or 3 days of procaine penicillin is generally sufficient. Treat until lesions have resolved.
Foot abscess
Diagnostics
Diagnosis can be made from examination of the foot.
Treatment
Antimicrobials are not indicated. Establishing drainage is the critical factor.
Digital dermatitis ('hairy heelwart')
Diagnostics
Diagnosis can be made from examination of the foot.
Treatment
Topical therapy with tetracycline is most effective. Bandaging maintains tetracycline contact with lesions.
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