STAPH IN SHOW GOATS…HOW TO TREAT SKIN INFECTION IN GOATS

Staph in show goats is one of the frustrating skin problems we see frequently in show goats. It is dermatitis caused by various species of Staphylococcus.

What is it?

Staph is a normal skin bacteria that can be found on healthy goat skin but it can become a problem when it gets out of control.

Staph dermatitis usually starts as an infected hair follicle and looks like a big pimple.  A lot of time that’s as far as it goes and early treatment can keep it limited to no more than a little pustule.

However, untreated (and sometimes when treated) it can spread and become a generalized and much more problematic issue.

It’s important to keep a close eye on your goats skin daily and if you see any small pustules treat them ASAP

Treatment

Traditionally we have recommended topical treatment with chlorhexidine or povidone iodine scrubs and systemic antibiotics if it spreads beyond a pustule.

The esterfied MCTs in Provilli are a valuable addition to the treatment protocol.

The bar graph represents the effect of using dilute Provilli on Staph.  It is highly effective at killing Staph while the emulsifiers and medium chains are beneficial to the skin and won’t dry it out like soaps. Using Provilli at one ounce per quart cut’s the Staph population in half within an hour and virtually eliminates it within 12 hours.

Prevention

Another point that a lot of people don’t think about is sanitizing their equipment like clipper blades, brushes, halters, chains, stands, etc. Chlorhexidine is a good disinfectant to use and you can just mix it in a bucket clean the equipment first then just drop your smaller equipment in then pull it out and let it air dry.  For bigger stuff clean it first then use a sprayer to spray the disinfectant on every surface and let it air dry.  Barbasol is another good disinfectant choice for clippers heads and blades.

We have a lot of customers that use Provilli routinely as a preventative. You can either add it to its own spray bottle or add one ounce per quart to your leave in conditioner. If you put an ounce of chlorhexidine and an ounce of Provilli in a quart sprayer and fill it with water you’ll have a one-two punch.

If you have any questions or concerns about staph in show goats please don’t hesitate to call or text.

Recognizing Staph Infections in Show Goats

Goathead thorns create tiny punctures that can allow ordinary skin bacteria to set up a painful staph infection. A scabby follicle may start as a single red papule or “pimple” that exudes pus when pressed. Other early signs include raised hair, localized swelling, crusty scabs, hair loss and an animal that suddenly resists being brushed. Because staphylococcal infections spread quickly when moisture and dirt create a hospitable environment, daily inspection is critical. Pay particular attention to areas that contact the ground or equipment—knees, hocks, dew claws and underbelly—as thorns and burrs often lodge in those spots.

Key early signs

• Red or pus‑filled bumps at the base of hair follicles
• Crusty scabs or bald patches, especially on legs and belly
• Hair that mats together or feels greasy to the touch
• Signs of pain when grooming or clipping
• A goat that rubs against fences or scratches excessively

Risk Factors & Preventive Hygiene

Small wounds from goathead thorns aren’t the only trigger for staph. Damp bedding, dirty clippers, shared halters and shears all contribute to skin micro‑tears and bacterial overgrowth. Stress from travelling to shows or rapid dietary changes also weakens the immune system.

• Environmental conditions: Warm, humid barns foster bacterial growth. Keep pens dry and remove wet bedding daily.
• Equipment hygiene: Disinfect clipper blades, combs and halters after each animal using a chlorhexidine solution and allow them to dry completely.
• Goathead thorns: Inspect pens and pastures for burrs and remove them. When grazing on trails, check legs and bellies for thorns and pull them immediately.
• Stress & nutrition: High‑energy show diets, transport and grooming can compromise immunity. Provide balanced rations with adequate protein, vitamins A and E, zinc and biotin to strengthen skin.

Treatment & Adjunct Therapies

At the first sign of staph, clip the surrounding hair and gently wash the area with warm soapy water to remove pus and debris. Apply a 2–4 % chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine solution and allow it to dry completely. Repeat twice daily until the lesion has dried and the scab falls off. Do not pick scabs—removing them prematurely can spread bacteria.

In addition to antiseptics, adjunct therapies support healing. Medium‑chain triglycerides and emulsifiers in products like Provilli moisturize skin and discourage fungal and bacterial growth without drying. For widespread lesions or infections around sensitive areas, consult a veterinarian about systemic antibiotics.

Step‑by‑step treatment

1. Isolate the affected goat to prevent spreading bacteria via direct contact.
2. Clip hair around each lesion with clean clippers.
3. Wash gently with a mild shampoo and rinse thoroughly.
4. Disinfect using chlorhexidine or iodine and let dry.
5. Apply a topical emollient such as a Provilli‑based conditioner to keep skin supple.
6. Monitor daily; if lesions enlarge or new spots appear, seek veterinary care.

Feeding & Immune Support

An animal’s ability to fend off staph depends on overall health. Feed a ration rich in quality protein to support tissue repair, and include trace minerals like zinc and copper at species‑appropriate levels for strong skin. Supplements with biotin and omega‑3 fatty acids help maintain a soft, flexible hair coat. Always provide clean water and avoid sudden feed changes that upset digestion.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

Some staph infections resolve quickly with good hygiene, but deep abscesses or lesions on the udder or face warrant professional treatment. A vet can prescribe systemic antibiotics, lance abscesses and recommend pain relief. Seek help if your goat develops a fever, stops eating or if multiple animals show lesions despite treatment.

Key Takeaways

• Perform daily skin checks for small, pus‑filled bumps and scabs.
• Remove goathead thorns promptly and keep pens free from burrs.
• Disinfect grooming equipment and maintain dry, clean bedding.
• Use antiseptics and moisturizers to treat lesions and support healing.
• Balance diets with protein, vitamins and minerals to strengthen immunity.
• Consult a veterinarian for severe or persistent infections.