Livestock may have thicker skin than humans, but they are still at risk during hot summer months. Conditions like sunburn, rain rot, and fly-transmitted wounds are common when animals are exposed to heat, moisture, and insects. Early care and proper treatment are important for keeping livestock healthy and productive.
Photosensitization is a condition that causes severe sunburn, especially in lighter-colored animals. It happens when animals eat toxic plants containing phylloerythrin, which makes their skin overly sensitive to sunlight.
There are two types: primary, caused directly by the plants, and secondary, which results from liver damage that prevents the body from breaking down toxins. Affected areas include the nose, ears, and udder. If left untreated, skin can peel, get infected, and even lead to death.
If signs appear, such as redness or peeling, animals should be moved to shade immediately. Owners should also remove toxic plants like Bishop’s weed and Largeleaf lantana from the pasture.
Rain rot is a skin infection caused by the bacteria Dermatophilus congolensis. It appears after rainy weather, when the skin stays wet for too long. Symptoms include crusty patches, matted hair, and sores, mostly on the back and legs. If untreated, infections can spread and affect internal organs. A veterinarian can help with faster healing and prevent serious damage.
Summer sores, also called cutaneous habronemiasis, are painful, open wounds that don’t heal. They’re caused by fly-transmitted worms, often affecting horses, donkeys, and mules. Flies lay larvae around moist areas like the lips, eyes, or existing wounds. The larvae cause itching and swelling as they burrow into the skin.
To protect animals, it’s important to control fly populations and seek early veterinary care.
By staying alert and working with professionals, livestock owners can keep animals safe during hot months. Preventing and treating skin problems early helps protect animal well-being and farm productivity.