Blowfly strike causes acute suffering and rapid death in affected sheep. Early detection and immediate treatment are essential to animal welfare and survival.
Blowfly strike causes intense suffering from maggots feeding on and into living tissue. The enzymes released by larvae cause liquefaction of skin and underlying tissue, creating rapidly expanding wounds. Affected sheep deteriorate rapidly from toxaemia and pain. Early recognition is critical — sheep should be checked during warm wet weather at least twice daily. Treatment involves removing all maggots, cleansing the wound, applying licensed insecticide and supportive care. Severely affected sheep may require euthanasia if tissue damage is extensive.