07/12/2025
Vulval Maggot Wound in Cow
A serious and painful condition requiring prompt attention.
*Causes:*
- Fly strike, often associated with poor hygiene, moisture, or open wounds
- Attracted to the vulval region due to urine, f***s, or discharge
*Clinical Presentation:*
- Visible maggots in the wound
- Swelling, redness, and pain in the vulval region
- Foul odor
- Possible signs of systemic infection or toxemia
- Decreased appetite or milk production
*Assessment:*
- Visual examination and palpation
- Identification of maggots
- Evaluation of the wound and surrounding tissue
- Check for signs of systemic infection (e.g., fever, depression)
*Treatment:*
- *Remove Maggots:*
- Clean and clip the area
- Apply topical insecticide (e.g., permethrin, pyrethrin)
- Manually remove maggots with forceps or flushing
- *Wound Management:*
- Clean and debride the wound
- Apply topical antibiotics and antiseptics
- Bandage or cover the wound (if necessary)
- *Supportive Care:*
- Systemic antibiotics (if infection is present)
- Anti-inflammatory medication (e.g., NSAIDs)
- Supportive nutrition and hydration
- *Fly Control:*
- Fly-repellent treatments (e.g., permethrin, pyrethrin)
- Environmental management (e.g., cleaning, drying)
*Complications:*
- Systemic infection or sepsis
- Vulval stenosis or scarring
- Infertility or reproductive problems
- Chronic pain or discomfort
*Prognosis:*
- Guarded, depending on severity and response to treatment
- Potential long-term effects on reproductive health
*Prevention:*
- Regular vulval care and inspection
- Fly control measures (e.g., fly repellents, screens)
- Improved hygiene and sanitation practices
Dr Love Son Lakhani M.Phil (Govt: Veterinary Surgeon).
Feel free to contact me for your animal care.
Contact number 0337 8010048
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