Abscess Treatment in Large Animals

Abscesses are a common issue in cattle, horses, goats, sheep, and pigs—especially animals exposed to puncture wounds, injections, hoof injuries, or bite wounds. An abscess is a localized pocket of infection filled with pus that causes swelling, pain, and sometimes fever or lameness. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we offer effective on-site and in-clinic treatment for abscesses to promote healing and prevent complications.

What Causes an Abscess?

Abscesses form when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin or mucous membranes, triggering an immune response. Pus accumulates in the area as the body tries to fight off the infection.

Common causes include:

  • Puncture wounds (nails, wire, bites)
  • Injection site reactions
  • Hoof abscesses from stones or poor hoof hygiene
  • Fight-related injuries (especially in intact males)
  • Tooth root or sinus infections (especially in horses)
  • Contagious diseases like caseous lymphadenitis (CL) in goats and sheep
  • Swollen lymph nodes from internal infections

Signs of an Abscess in Livestock

  • Swelling that is warm, firm, or soft to the touch
  • Local pain or sensitivity
  • Lameness (if in a limb or hoof)
  • Discharge or oozing from a draining tract
  • Fever, decreased appetite, or lethargy
  • Unpleasant odor (especially if ruptured)
  • Reluctance to move or bear weight (hoof abscesses)

How We Treat Abscesses

Veterinary treatment ensures safe drainage, infection control, and pain relief, reducing complications and speeding recovery. Our process typically includes:

1. Diagnosis and Evaluation:

We assess the location, depth, and maturity of the abscess. Imaging or hoof testers may be used in some cases.

2. Lancing and Drainage:

Mature abscesses are carefully lanced to release pressure and pus. Repeat evaluation may be needed.

3. Flushing and Cleaning:

The cavity is flushed with antiseptic solution to remove debris and bacteria.

4. Pain Management and Anti-Inflammatories:

We provide medications to reduce swelling and discomfort.

5. Antibiotics (If Needed):

Prescribed only for severe or spreading infections.

6. Hoof Care:

For hoof abscesses, we trim the hoof, remove infection, and apply poultices or bandages.

What You Shouldn’t Do at Home

  • Don’t attempt to lance an abscess yourself – it can worsen the infection or cause damage.
  • Don’t ignore it – untreated abscesses can lead to systemic illness.
  • Don’t wrap too tightly – improper bandaging can worsen hoof abscesses.
  • Common causes include: – they may be hernias, tumors, or cysts.

Aftercare and Monitoring

After abscess treatment, we’ll provide instructions for wound care, which may include:

  • Daily flushing or cleaning
  • Soaking hooves (for hoof abscesses)
  • Keeping the area dry and protected
  • Monitoring for signs of recurrence
  • A follow-up visit, if needed

Most animals improve quickly once the abscess is drained and pressure is relieved.

Contagious Abscesses in Goats and Sheep

Caseous lymphadenitis (CL) is a highly contagious bacterial disease causing internal and external abscesses. If suspected, we’ll discuss isolation, testing, and biosecurity protocols to protect your herd.

Need Abscess Care for Your Animal?

If your large animal is showing signs of swelling, pain, or lameness, please call us at (337) 893-8522. We offer prompt, effective treatment both in-clinic and on-site to get your animal healing properly.