How to Treat Cattle With Ring Worm
Ringworm is a fungal infection that many mammals contract, including cattle. This infection is primarily located within cattle's hair. Once infected, the area begins to look gray and ashen, with a noticeably raised area that is usually circular, hence the name. Most often, cattle are affected by ringworm in winter. Although unsightly, ringworm is not fatal, but it can spread among cattle very quickly. It can clear up without interference from humans, but if left to go away naturally, it can take up to nine months. By treating ringworm when the marks are noticed, you can curb a widespread outbreak among your cattle and other animals.
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Things You'll Need
- Brush
- Gloves
- Disposable container
- Topical ringworm cream, spray or paste
- 2 percent Iodine and water solution
- Solution of one part bleach to three parts water
Instructions
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1
Put on your gloves. Separate the affected cattle from the non-affected, if possible.
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2
Brush off the crusty, scabbed area over the ringworm. Collect the scrapings in the container to keep them from hitting the ground and contaminating the area. Dispose of the scrapings and the container when finished, either by putting them in the trash or burning them.
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3
Apply the topical ringworm treatment or iodine solution to the freshly scraped area. Make sure to rub it in well. Apply to each ringworm area on the cow. Repeat this on every cow affected.
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4
Wait three to five days. Scrape the ringworm areas, and apply the topical cream again. The ringworm should begin to disappear. If not, wait three to five days, and apply the cream again.
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5
Disinfect the cattle's living area and equipment with the bleach solution. Let the area thoroughly dry to prevent another infection.
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Tips & Warnings
Ringworm can transfer from cattle to humans. Practice proper sanitation when dealing with your cattle. Wear gloves when touching the affected areas, and wash your hands immediately after finishing handling the cattle. Increasing your cattle's exposure to sunlight can help curb ringworm infections. Keep their area as dry as possible throughout the winter.
