There are six basic types of wounds:

• Abrasions: superficial scrapes or friction burns that may scab as they heal.
• Contusions: bruises and swellings that have no external drainage.
• Incisions: cuts which have clean edges and often heal with little scarring.
• Lacerations: cuts with jagged tears and uneven edges.
• Punctures: wounds that are deeper than they are wide.
• Burns: may be caused by friction, heat, cold (frostbite), chemicals and or electric shock.

Wound treatment varies according to the type of the wound. Best results are obtained when the animal is in good health. If a wound is not treated within several hours of its occurrence, it is considered to be infected and treated as such. Tetanus antitoxin or booster is always recommended following an injury.

Clean wounds with warm sterile solution or mild soap (preferably germicidal soap) and water. For severe or questionable wounds, call the veterinarian. With severe injuries the prevention or treatment of shock is vitally important and should always start before wound therapy commences.

Keep flies off all wounds with an insecticide repellent specifically recommended for fly and insect protection around wounds, and use only around the edges of the wound, not within the margin of the injury. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Note: Superficial wounds to the udders and teats of cows and other animals, should be treated as open wounds, cleaned and treated frequently. Deep wounds must be cleaned and sutured under local anesthesia.

Seasonal skin problems:

• Allergies - common allergies are pollen, weeds, certain feeds, drugs, parasites, insect bites or stings, and insecticides.
• Insect bites - Biting flies cause a wide range of diseases in animals and are frequently found in wet, moist areas, such as the banks of ponds and streams. Also found in dry areas and dirty livestock facilities. Both mild and severe reactions in both people and animals, depending on their sensitivity, can occur. Cattle, sheep, horses, donkeys and goats are particularly susceptible as flies are attracted to moist areas, such as eyes, mouth, nose, ears, genitalia, and wounds. Every attempt should be made to keep livestock areas clean The removal of manure to minimize fly breeding areas, is a critical aspect of fly control.
• Fleas bites - commonly affect dogs and cats, causing itching and in some cases, severe skin problems can develop. Scratching usually aggravates the condition. Can be a year round problem in warm humid climates, and a more seasonal summer problem in temperate zones.
• Sunburn - pigs, closely shorn sheep, hairless dogs, white and thin haired cats, in particular their ears, are susceptible to sunburn. Sunscreen creams can be used as recommended by a veterinarian. Hot pavements or sand can also cause burning and blistering of the pads.
• Frostbite - Young, old, injured or sick horses, cows and goats, are particularly susceptible. The ears are often affected, but tail and feet also. Can occur in poorly nourished animals, especially the young, eg. Calves, foals and kids. Teats of cows are also susceptible. Pigs farrowed in extreme cold may suffer from frostbite of exposed parts, especially the ears and tail.

  The early signs of frostbite are not always apparent as the areas usually affected are covered with hair.

  Note: Do not assume that all animals with fur or hair can withstand being exposed to freezing temperatures. Provide good food and adequate shelter to all animals to maximize protection against frostbite.

  Birds can also suffer frostbite on the toes and feet. The combs and wattles of chickens are also susceptible and regular application of Vaseline to the combs helps protect from frostbite.