Infection of wounds by bacterium Clostridium tetani results in tetanus.

Symptoms: Symptoms observed include a general increase in muscle stiffness, resulting in an unsteady gait. The eyelid droops over the eye and animal looks anxious. The symptoms often get progressively worse and convulsions may occur. Death occurs from asphyxiation.

Prevention: Prevention of this disease is often more effective than the treatment of affected goats.Vaccination is recommended for prevention. Annual boosters are required for protection.

Treatment Goats treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin and antiserum, often exhibit poor response to treatment. The site of bacterial proliferation should be searched for, and whenever is possible, the wound or infection site should be opened to the air and infiltrated with penicillin. The area can be infiltrated with tetanus antitoxin before the wound-cleansing process is begun to reduce the chance that more preexisting toxin will be absorbed during tissue manipulation. Excessive tissue manipulation may make the animal dramatically worse.

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