Lice in animals can be a common problem during winter. Many farmers deal with heavy
infestations that can cause unthriftiness, reduce weight gain, and lead to economic losses.
Lice affect many livestock species, including cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, and goats.
Different types of lice infect humans. Animals do not carry or spread human lice.
What are lice?
Lice are parasitic insects that are spread by close contact. There are two different types of lice. Sucking lice take a blood meal from the animal. Biting lice scrape pieces of skin from the animal and eat that material. The biting and “sucking” causes itchiness and often distress in animals. Lice do not survive off the animal for very long.
How do animals get lice?
Lice crawl; they don’t hop or fly, so lice spread by close contact with animals that already have lice. Some factors that promote lice spread include overcrowding, reduced direct sunlight (during winter months), poor body condition, and malnutrition. Animals in good condition will be more resistant to lice.
When should I suspects lice?
In general
- During the winter months.
- Signs of skin irritation, rubbing on objects like posts and fences. Animals may seem distressed.
- Hairless areas and/or damage skin or hide, scaley skin.
- Hair or wool on fences where they have rubbed.
- In shorthair species, lice may be seen crawling on face, head, neck, shoulders, back, and back legs.
Treatment
There are many different insecticides and application methods available to treat lice: sprays, pour-on, and injectable pesticides. It is recommended to treat animals in the fall/early winter to prevent future infections and help with current ones. There are also many natural remedies available online, most of which include diluted vinegar.
Read labels carefully. Remember, there may be withdrawal times for pesticides used in food
animals. Contact your veterinarian or extension for more information on treatment and
management.
Prevention
Lice are transmitted directly between animals, so remember to:
- Isolate new arrivals to the farm and inspect them for lice (and other diseases of concern) before mixing them with the herd.
- Keep animal pens and equipment clean.
- Keep them healthy – Animals in good health are more resistant to parasites and disease.
Resources
CDC – About Lice
Chicken Lice: How to Spot, Prevent, and Treat Them
UC Davis Lice Infestation in Cattle