Frostbite
Result of skin and superficial tissue necrosis due to low temperatures.
Description
Ears, tail, and feet are the most vulnerable areas. The frostbite is common on farms with extensive outdoors production.
Symptoms
All ages
- At first, the skin becomes pale and then bright red, inflamed and painful.
- If exposure to low temperatures continues, the affected tissues die and a line of separation between the damaged tissues and healthy tissues appears.
- It can lead to secondary skin infections.
Causes / Contributing Factors
Exposure to low temperatures.
Diagnosis
It is based on skin lesions and a history of exposure to cold temperatures.
Control/Prevention
- Cover affected areas with an antiseptic cream.
- It may be necessary to use topical antibiotics to control infections.
- Move affected animals inside the building.
- Protect the animals from the cold environment.
