05 June 2025

Breaking the scald cycle

The presence of wet and stemmy grass, combined with warm weather means that farmers have to be extra vigilant for the first signs of lameness occurring – particularly scald.

Jake Delaney, a Postgraduate Student based in Teagasc Athenry whose research centred on the causes and farmers’ understanding of lameness, joined Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Ciaran Lynch on a recent episode of the OviCast podcast to detail the correct steps to take to tackle scald and other lameness issues.

One of the most common early causes of lameness is scald, Jake explained, with it being particularly prevalent in lambs during wet conditions and rapid grass growth. Moist environments, combined with muddy ground and close animal contact create the ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive and spread.

A condition impacting both productivity and welfare, Jake Delaney noted that lame lambs suffer from reduced growth rates, meaning they remain on the farm longer, thus increasing costs. Lame ewes, on the other hand, often experience a drop in body condition, which can affect everything from pregnancy scanning results to their ability to rear lambs.

Prompt treatment essential

Early intervention is key to breaking the vicious cycle of lameness, Jake Delaney added, as scald often precedes more serious conditions like footrot and contagious ovine digital dermatitis (CODD).

On effective strategies for scald control, Jake Delaney pointed to footbathing using either zinc or copper sulphate solutions. Such solutions need to be mixed to the correct concentration (10%), with sheep standing in the solution for 15-20 minutes. A stand-off area is also required post footbathing to prevent recontamination and to allow the solution to work effectively.

Group treatments through footbathing are ideal, as scald bacteria can exist on many animals’ feet before visible symptoms emerge. However, in more severe scald cases, he advised that topical treatments may be required, especially for individual animals showing signs of advanced lameness, and that farmers should also consult with their vet for appropriate guidance.

For further tips on controlling lameness in sheep, listen to the full episode of the OviCast podcast below:

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