Observations on an Outbreak of Foot Abscess in Sheep

An outbreak of ovine interdigital dermatitis and foot abscess in which approximately a third of 300 Perendale ram hoggets had acute lameness was investigated. Both foot infections occurred simultaneously in the flock, and ovine interdigital dermatitis preceded the occurrence of foot abscess in seven instances. It was suggested that the behaviour pattern and sexual activity of the young rams predisposed them to ovine interdigital dermatitis and foot abscess. Although no controlled trials were conducted, the lame sheep responded well following the combined therapeutic measures of dry surroundings, formalin footbathing and selected antibiotic therapy.