C.A.H.L.
- YOUR PARTNER IN ANIMAL HEALTH
BLACKLEG
CAUSE
Blackleg is a gas gangrene affecting cattle and sheep, caused by the
growth of a germ called Clostridium chauvoeil in the muscles and surrounding
tissues. Blackleg can live for a long time on pastures and in the soil
and can pass through the digestive tract of cattle and sheep. Blackleg
spores are thought to gain entry through a wound. The disease is recognised
as one where blackleg spores are maintained in the soil and increased
by the constant grazing of cattle and sheep thus the reason for "blackleg
farms or fields". The sudden death of an animal under two years
of age should be treated with caution. Animals suffering from Blackleg
can die within 36 hours if left untreated.
SYMPTOMS
The muscle in the area of the wound becomes swollen and gaseous.
TREATMENT
& PREVENTION
Blackleg develops quickly, that only rarely does one catch it early
enough. However, if diagnosed sufficiently early it can be treated by
your veterinary surgeon. Vaccination is the best means of protection
against blackleg. In cattle, two injections seperated by an interval
of a month when the animal is three to six months old. Annual booster
injections of the vaccine are recommended. In sheep, two injections
should be given by an interval of at least 6 weeks with the second injection
being given three to four weeks before lambing. Annual revaccination
is advised before an expected period of risk. Contact your local CAHL
representative for further details.
