Scabby mouth in lambs is a disease that affects lamb health. It is a viral disease that causes scabs and pustules, usually around the mouth and face of affected animals. Animals become infected with scabby mouth when abrasions in the skin allow the virus to enter and establish. Older sheep tend to be immune as a result of previous contact with the virus.
Signs of Scabby Mouth in Lambs
The signs of scabby mouth in lambs are raised scabs with a red ulcerated area underneath the scab most commonly around the lips, muzzle and nostrils but also less commonly the eyes, feet, lower leg, anus, vulva, udder, scrotum and pizzle.
Treatment for Scabby Mouth in Lambs
The only real cure for scabby mouth in lambs is to allow time for the virus to run its course. At the same time treatment with an antibiotic and steroid cream and ensuring the area remains clean and any excess scabs soaked off also helps.