Abscess on lamb's leg *GRAPHIC*

[Josephine Parkinson]

Awhile ago one of my Tunis x Arcott lamb's leg got badly injured and swelled up. I got him to the vet too late, sadly, and she said the internal wound had already calcified. He wasn't in pain, so I decided to simply plan on slaughtering him come spring.

About two weeks later, I notice there was a bald lump on the outside of the leg on the bad knee. Please see the attached image. I tried to take a sample of the internal fluid using a 20cc syringe and 3/4 inch needle. Didn't work. I cut into it, and saw an elastic-like substance in it. I cleaned it out as best I could, disinfected it, and rinsed it with saline.

This morning, after a single day, it's swollen back up again. I'm about to go and clean it out again. What is this abscess?

 

[Josephine Parkinson]

Alright, I got back from cleaning it out a second time. There was less pus in the cavity, and it was easier to get out. I also noticed a bald patch on the rear leg opposite the injured leg. Before, during, and the rear leg images included.

 

[Baymule]

Everybody's panic button is CL or Caseous Lymphadenitis. Links are below. After scaring you half to death, sheep can get abscesses that are not CL. You can have him tested for peace of mind. If he does have CL and is slaughtered, the carcass can be condemned, not fit for consumption, not that you would want to consume it.

Caseous Lymphadenitis of Sheep and Goats - Circulatory System - Merck Veterinary Manual

Learn about the veterinary topic of Caseous Lymphadenitis of Sheep and Goats. Find specific details on this topic and related topics from the Merck Vet Manual.

www.merckvetmanual.com

Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL) in Sheep and Goats | OSU Sheep Team

u.osu.edu

http://veterinaryextension.colostate.edu/menu2/sm%20rum/Caseous%20Lymphadenitis%20in%20Small%20Ruminants.pdf

Some abscesses are not CL

Veterinary handbook for cattle, sheep and goats > Diseases

www.veterinaryhandbook.com.au

abscess

I hope this helps.