# Alpaca and Llama Hoof Care: Trimming, Foot Health, and Lameness Prevention ## Key Takeaways - Regular hoof trimming, typically every 8 to 12 weeks, is crucial for maintaining proper weight distribution and preventing lameness in alpacas and llamas, with frequency adjusted based on individual growth rates, terrain, and conformation. - Hoof overgrowth, characterized by toe elongation, curling, or splaying, alters gait and stresses joints; prompt correction through gradual trimming is essential to avoid pain and structural damage. - Foot rot (interdigital dermatitis) is a bacterial infection presenting with foul odor, redness, and lameness, necessitating immediate isolation and veterinary diagnosis and treatment, often involving topical antimicrobials and improved hygiene. - Abscesses manifest as sudden, severe lameness with localized heat and swelling, often requiring veterinary intervention for diagnosis, drainage, and appropriate antimicrobial therapy to prevent further tissue damage. - Lameness prevention strategies encompass clean, dry housing to minimize hoof softening and bacterial proliferation, balanced nutrition supporting keratin integrity (with emphasis on copper and zinc), and rigorous biosecurity for new arrivals to prevent disease introduction. - Persistent lameness post-trimming, suspected infections (foot rot, abscesses), deep hoof cracks, or significant swelling above the coronary band warrant professional escalation to a veterinarian or experienced camelid hoof trimmer for accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment. --- Alpaca and llama hoof care is a routine management responsibility that directly affects mobility, weight distribution, and long-term soundness. Camelids have two weight-bearing toes on each foot, each with a growing hoof wall that requires periodic trimming to prevent overgrowth, imbalance, and lameness. This article provides practical guidance on hoof anatomy, trimming frequency and technique, common foot problems including overgrowth, foot rot, and abscesses, and measures to prevent lameness in your herd. ## At a Glance: Hoof Care Essentials | Aspect | Recommendation | Key Consideration | |--------|----------------|-------------------| | Trimming frequency | Every 8 to 12 weeks for most animals, adjust based on growth rate, terrain, and individual conformation | Softer ground and confinement slow natural wear, harder surfaces may accelerate wear but can cause uneven trimming needs | | Signs of overgrowth | Toe elongation, curling under, splaying of toes, altered gait, reluctance to move on hard surfaces | Check all four feet at each handling, hind feet often grow faster than front feet | | Common foot problems | Overgrowth, foot rot (interdigital dermatitis), abscesses, sole bruising, white line separation | Foot rot requires prompt isolation and veterinary diagnosis, abscesses often present as sudden lameness with heat and swelling | | Lameness prevention | Regular trimming, clean dry housing, proper nutrition, biosecurity for new arrivals, daily observation | Lameness reduces feed intake, breeding success, and overall welfare, early detection improves outcomes | | Professional escalation | Persistent lameness after trimming, suspected infection, deep cracks, abnormal hoof shape, or swelling above the coronary band | Consult a veterinarian or experienced camelid hoof trimmer for cases beyond routine maintenance | ## Hoof Anatomy and Growth in Camelids Alpacas and llamas are digitigrade animals that bear weight on the distal phalanges of two functional toes on each foot. Each toe is encased in a hoof capsule composed of keratinized tissue. The hoof wall grows continuously from the coronary band, similar to the equine hoof, but at a slower rate. The sole and frog are less prominent than in horses, and the interdigital space is open, which can trap debris and moisture. The weight-bearing surface includes the hoof wall, the sole, and the heel bulbs. Proper hoof angle and balance distribute load evenly across these structures. Overgrowth of the toe or heel shifts weight to the sole or heel bulbs, causing bruising, cracks, and lameness. The hind feet typically grow faster than the front feet, and individual growth rates vary with age, nutrition, genetics, and activity level. Understanding normal hoof conformation is essential before trimming. A healthy alpaca or llama hoof has a straight toe wall, a sole that is slightly concave, and heel bulbs that are firm and even. The angle of the hoof wall relative to the ground should be approximately 45 to 50 degrees. Deviations from this angle indicate overgrowth or imbalance. ## Hoof Trimming: Frequency, Tools, and Technique ### Determining Trimming Frequency Trimming frequency depends on several factors. Animals kept on soft pasture or in drylot with limited movement may require trimming every 8 to 12 weeks. Those on rocky or abrasive terrain may wear hooves naturally and need less frequent trimming. Individual variation is significant. Some animals maintain good hoof shape with trimming twice a year, while others need attention every 6 to 8 weeks. Observe each animal's gait and hoof shape at least monthly. Record trimming dates and notes on hoof condition for each animal. This record helps identify animals that need more frequent trimming and those that can go longer between trims. Young animals and pregnant females may have faster hoof growth and require more frequent attention. ### Essential Tools and Setup Basic hoof trimming tools for camelids include: - Hoof trimmers or nippers designed for small ruminants or camelids - A hoof knife or curved blade for cleaning the sole and removing loose tissue - A rasp or file for smoothing edges and balancing the hoof - A hoof pick for cleaning debris from the interdigital space - A headlamp or good lighting for inspecting the sole and interdigital area - Restraint equipment such as a chute, tilt table, or halter and lead Clean tools between animals to prevent disease transmission. Disinfect trimmers and knives with a veterinary-approved disinfectant after each use, especially if you suspect infection. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on biosecurity practices for livestock handling equipment (Animal Health and Welfare, USDA National Agricultural Library, https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Restraint and Positioning Safe restraint is critical for both the handler and the animal. Alpacas and llamas can be restrained in a standing position using a halter and a sturdy post or in a chute designed for camelids. Some handlers prefer to lay the animal on its side using a tilt table or by casting with ropes. This position provides full access to all four feet and reduces the risk of injury. When casting an animal, use padded ropes and work with an experienced assistant. Never work alone with a large llama or an uncooperative animal. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations emphasizes the importance of proper handling facilities to reduce stress and injury during routine procedures (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Trimming Technique The goal of trimming is to restore the hoof to a functional shape and angle, not to make it look perfect. Remove only the excess growth that extends beyond the weight-bearing surface. Over-trimming can cause pain, bleeding, and lameness. Follow these steps for each foot: 1. Clean the foot thoroughly with a hoof pick. Remove all debris from the interdigital space and around the sole. 2. Inspect the sole, frog, heel bulbs, and interdigital skin for signs of infection, cracks, or abnormal odor. 3. Using hoof trimmers, cut the toe wall back to a length that aligns with the sole. Make small cuts and check frequently. The toe should be straight and the hoof wall should meet the ground at the correct angle. 4. Trim the heel bulbs if they are overgrown or uneven. The heel should be level with the sole and provide even weight bearing. 5. Use a hoof knife to remove loose or flaky sole material. Do not dig into healthy sole tissue. 6. Use a rasp to smooth the edges of the hoof wall and balance the foot. Round the toe slightly to prevent chipping. 7. Check the opposite foot of the same pair and trim to match. Front feet should be symmetrical, and hind feet should be symmetrical. After trimming, observe the animal walking on a firm surface. The gait should be even and comfortable. If the animal is lame or reluctant to bear weight, recheck the foot for over-trimming or injury. ## Common Foot Problems and Their Management ### Hoof Overgrowth Hoof overgrowth is the most common foot problem in alpacas and llamas. It occurs when the hoof wall grows faster than it wears down. Overgrown hooves can curl under the foot, splay apart, or develop cracks. The animal may walk on the side of the foot or on the heel bulbs, causing abnormal gait and joint stress. Prevention relies on regular trimming. If overgrowth is severe, multiple trimming sessions may be needed to gradually correct the shape. Do not attempt to correct severe overgrowth in one session, as this can cause lameness from rapid change in hoof angle. ### Foot Rot (Interdigital Dermatitis) Foot rot in camelids is a bacterial infection of the interdigital skin. It is characterized by a foul odor, moistness between the toes, redness, swelling, and lameness. The condition is often associated with wet, muddy, or unsanitary housing conditions. Foot rot can spread rapidly through a herd if not managed promptly. Isolate affected animals immediately. Clean and dry the affected foot. A veterinarian should diagnose foot rot and prescribe appropriate treatment. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on recognizing and managing infectious foot conditions in livestock (Management and Nutrition, Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). Do not use over-the-counter treatments without veterinary guidance, as some products are not approved for camelids. ### Abscesses A hoof abscess is a localized infection within the hoof capsule. It presents as sudden, severe lameness with heat, swelling, and pain on palpation. The abscess may rupture at the coronary band or through the sole. Abscesses can result from a penetrating wound, a deep crack, or a foreign body. If you suspect an abscess, clean the foot and apply a warm water soak to encourage drainage. Do not probe the foot aggressively. A veterinarian should evaluate the foot to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of lameness. The FDA provides resources on veterinary drug use and withdrawal periods for food animals (Animal and Veterinary Resources, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). Follow veterinary instructions for any medications used. ### Sole Bruising and White Line Separation Sole bruising occurs when the sole is compressed against a hard surface or a stone. It appears as a red or purple discoloration on the sole. White line separation is a crack or gap between the hoof wall and the sole. Both conditions can lead to infection if debris enters the separation. Prevent sole bruising by providing soft, dry bedding in housing areas. Avoid forcing animals to stand on concrete or rocky ground for extended periods. White line separation may require trimming to remove the separated wall and prevent further damage. ## Lameness Prevention Strategies ### Housing and Environment Clean, dry housing is the foundation of foot health. Wet, muddy conditions soften the hoof and predispose it to infection and overgrowth. Provide well-drained pens with dry bedding. Remove manure regularly to reduce bacterial load. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on animal production systems that improve welfare and reduce disease (Animal Production and Protection, USDA Agricultural Research Service, https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). Outdoor areas should have good drainage. Avoid creating mud holes around waterers and feeders. If animals must stand on concrete, provide rubber mats or deep bedding to reduce sole bruising. ### Nutrition Proper nutrition supports hoof growth and integrity. A balanced diet with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential. Copper and zinc are particularly important for hoof keratinization. However, camelids have different copper requirements than sheep and goats. Work with a nutritionist or veterinarian to formulate a diet that meets your herd's needs without causing toxicity. Overfeeding energy can lead to obesity, which increases weight on the feet and contributes to lameness. Maintain body condition scores within the recommended range for your breed and production stage. ### Biosecurity for New Arrivals New animals can introduce foot rot and other infectious diseases to your herd. Quarantine new arrivals for at least 30 days. Inspect their feet daily during quarantine. Trim and clean the feet of new animals before introducing them to the main herd. The FAO provides guidelines on biosecurity measures for livestock operations (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Daily Observation Walk through your herd daily and observe each animal's gait and posture. Look for signs of lameness such as head bobbing, shortened stride, reluctance to move, or standing on one foot. Early detection allows prompt intervention and reduces the severity of foot problems. Record any lameness observations in a herd health log. Note the affected foot, severity, and any treatment provided. This record helps identify patterns and recurring problems in individual animals. ## Records and Measurements Maintaining accurate records is essential for effective hoof care. For each animal, record: - Trimming date and foot condition before trimming - Amount of hoof removed (e.g., toe length before and after) - Any abnormalities observed (cracks, odor, swelling, discoloration) - Treatment administered and outcome - Next scheduled trimming date Use a simple spreadsheet or a paper log. Review records quarterly to identify animals that need more frequent trimming or that have recurrent problems. This data supports management decisions and can be shared with your veterinarian. ## Common Failure Patterns in Hoof Care Even experienced handlers can encounter problems. Common failures include: - **Over-trimming**: Removing too much hoof wall or sole causes pain and lameness. The animal may be reluctant to bear weight for several days. Allow the hoof to grow back before the next trim. - **Under-trimming**: Leaving too much hoof growth allows overgrowth to continue. The animal may develop cracks or abnormal gait. Increase trimming frequency. - **Inconsistent trimming**: Trimming one foot more than the other creates imbalance. Always trim both feet of a pair to match. - **Ignoring hind feet**: Hind feet often grow faster and are more prone to overgrowth. Check all four feet at each handling. - **Poor restraint**: Inadequate restraint leads to incomplete trimming and increases the risk of injury to the animal or handler. Invest in proper handling equipment. - **Delaying treatment**: Waiting to address lameness or infection allows the condition to worsen. Treat foot problems promptly. ## Limitations and Professional Escalation Routine hoof trimming is within the capability of most alpaca and llama owners. However, some situations require professional help. Escalate to a veterinarian or experienced camelid hoof trimmer when: - Lameness persists for more than 24 hours after trimming - You suspect foot rot, abscess, or other infection - The hoof has deep cracks that extend into sensitive tissue - There is swelling, heat, or discharge above the coronary band - The animal has a deformed hoof or abnormal gait that does not improve with trimming - You are unsure of the diagnosis or treatment A veterinarian can perform a thorough lameness examination, take radiographs if needed, and prescribe appropriate treatment. The USDA Agricultural Research Service supports research on livestock health and disease management (Animal Production and Protection, USDA Agricultural Research Service, https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). Use this resource to find evidence-based information on foot health. ## Welfare and Safety Context Hoof care is a welfare issue. Chronic lameness causes pain, reduces mobility, and affects the animal's ability to eat, drink, and interact with the herd. It can lead to weight loss, decreased fertility, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. The FAO emphasizes the importance of routine health care, including hoof care, in maintaining animal welfare (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Handler safety is equally important. Alpacas and llamas can kick, bite, or struggle during restraint. Use proper handling techniques and equipment. Never work alone with a large or aggressive animal. Keep children and untrained personnel away from the trimming area. [Food safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) considerations apply if you raise animals for meat. Some medications used to treat foot infections have withdrawal periods. Follow veterinary instructions and FDA guidelines for drug use in food animals (Animal and Veterinary Resources, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). Keep records of all treatments and withdrawal times. ## Decision Framework for Hoof Triming Priority: A Risk-Based Approach Managing a herd of alpacas or llamas requires a systematic method for deciding which animals need hoof trimming first and how aggressively to trim. A risk-based priority framework helps you allocate time and resources effectively, especially when handling multiple animals in a single session. This framework uses observable criteria to rank animals by urgency, ensuring that those with the greatest need receive attention before their condition worsens. ### Priority Level 1: Immediate Attention Animals in this category require trimming within 24 hours. Signs include visible lameness with head bobbing or shortened stride, reluctance to bear weight on one or more feet, swelling or heat in the hoof or lower limb, foul odor between the toes, or discharge from the coronary band or sole. These animals may have an abscess, foot rot, or a penetrating injury. Isolate the animal immediately and examine the foot thoroughly. If you cannot identify and address the cause promptly, consult a veterinarian. The Merck Veterinary Manual advises that sudden lameness with heat and swelling often indicates an infectious process requiring professional diagnosis (Management and Nutrition, Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). Do not delay treatment for Priority 1 cases. ### Priority Level 2: Schedule Within One Week Animals in this category show hoof overgrowth that is visible from a standing position, such as toes that curl under or splay apart, but they are not acutely lame. They may walk with a slightly shortened stride or show mild discomfort on hard surfaces. Also include animals with known hoof cracks that do not extend into sensitive tissue, those with sole bruising visible during routine inspection, and animals that have missed their scheduled trim by more than two weeks. Trim these animals as soon as your schedule allows, ideally within seven days. Delaying beyond one week increases the risk of progression to lameness or structural damage. ### Priority Level 3: Routine Trimming Most animals fall into this category. They have no visible lameness, their hooves are within normal shape and angle, and they are due for trimming based on your schedule. Trim these animals during regular handling sessions. Use your records to identify animals that consistently fall into Priority 3 and adjust their trimming interval accordingly. Some animals may maintain good hoof shape with trimming every 10 to 12 weeks, while others need attention every 6 to 8 weeks. The USDA Agricultural Research Service supports research on management practices that improve animal health outcomes, including routine preventive care (Animal Production and Protection, USDA Agricultural Research Service, https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). Routine trimming prevents overgrowth and reduces the number of animals that escalate to higher priority levels. ### Priority Level 4: Observation Only These animals have hooves that appear well-shaped and do not need trimming at this time. They may be on abrasive terrain that provides natural wear, or they may have been trimmed recently. Record their condition and recheck at your next scheduled inspection. Do not trim animals in this category unnecessarily, as over-trimming can cause pain and lameness. However, continue to observe them monthly for changes in hoof shape or gait. ### Implementing the Framework Before each trimming session, walk through your herd and assign each animal a priority level based on the criteria above. Use a simple scoring system on a clipboard or mobile device. Record the animal's ID, priority level, and any notes on foot condition. This assessment takes 10 to 15 minutes for a herd of 20 animals and ensures that you address the most urgent cases first. During the trimming session, start with Priority 2 animals, then move to Priority 3 animals. Reserve Priority 1 animals for immediate handling outside of scheduled sessions. If you have limited time, trim only the Priority 2 animals and reschedule the Priority 3 animals for the next session. Do not skip Priority 2 animals, as they are at risk of becoming lame. ### Record System for Priority Tracking Maintain a simple record for each animal that includes the date of assessment, priority level assigned, actual trimming date, and outcome. Use a spreadsheet with columns for animal ID, assessment date, priority level, trimming date, foot condition notes, and next scheduled assessment. Review these records quarterly to identify animals that frequently fall into Priority 2 or that have recurring foot problems. Share this data with your veterinarian to inform herd health planning. The FAO provides guidance on record-keeping systems for livestock management that support decision-making and disease surveillance (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Troubleshooting Common Priority Assessment Errors Misjudging priority level is a common failure. Overestimating priority leads to unnecessary trimming and potential over-trimming. Underestimating priority delays care and allows problems to worsen. To avoid these errors, use objective criteria instead of subjective impressions. Measure toe length with a ruler if you are unsure. Compare the affected foot to the opposite foot of the same pair. If one foot is visibly longer or more curved than the other, assign a higher priority. Another common error is ignoring hind feet during assessment. Hind feet often grow faster than front feet and are more prone to overgrowth. Always assess all four feet on every animal. If you cannot see all four feet clearly during a walk-through, handle the animal briefly to inspect all feet. If an animal repeatedly falls into Priority 2 despite regular trimming, investigate underlying causes. Possible factors include poor nutrition, soft terrain that does not wear hooves, individual conformation that predisposes to overgrowth, or an undiagnosed health problem. Consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation. The USDA National Agricultural Library offers resources on animal health and welfare that can help you identify contributing factors (Animal Health and Welfare, USDA National Agricultural Library, https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### When to Adjust the Framework The priority framework is a guide, not a rigid rule. Adjust it based on your herd's specific conditions. For example, during wet seasons when foot rot risk is high, lower the threshold for Priority 2 to include animals with any moisture or redness between the toes. During dry seasons when hooves are harder and less prone to infection, you may extend the interval between assessments. If you introduce new animals to the herd, assign them Priority 2 for their first assessment, regardless of hoof condition. This ensures that you inspect and trim their feet before they interact with the main herd, reducing the risk of introducing foot rot or other infectious conditions. The FAO emphasizes biosecurity measures for new arrivals, including foot inspection and quarantine (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Use the priority framework consistently for at least three trimming cycles before evaluating its effectiveness. Review your records to see if the number of Priority 1 cases decreases over time. If it does not, reassess your trimming frequency, technique, and environmental management. A well-implemented priority system should reduce the incidence of acute lameness and improve overall herd foot health. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How often should I trim my alpaca's hooves? Most alpacas need hoof trimming every 8 to 12 weeks. Growth rate varies with age, nutrition, and terrain. Check hooves monthly and trim when the toe extends beyond the sole or the hoof wall begins to curl. Hind feet often grow faster than front feet and may need more frequent trimming. ### Can I use sheep hoof trimmers on llamas? Sheep hoof trimmers may work for small alpacas, but larger llamas require heavier-duty trimmers designed for camelids or small ruminants. The tool must be sharp enough to cut through the hoof wall cleanly without crushing it. Dull trimmers cause splitting and discomfort. ### What does foot rot look like in alpacas? Foot rot in alpacas appears as redness, swelling, and moistness between the toes. There is a foul odor, and the animal is lame. The interdigital skin may be raw or ulcerated. Isolate affected animals and consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. ### How do I prevent hoof problems in my herd? Prevent hoof problems by trimming regularly, providing clean dry housing, maintaining proper nutrition, and practicing biosecurity for new arrivals. Observe animals daily for lameness and address foot issues promptly. Keep records to track individual hoof health. ### Is it safe to trim hooves on a pregnant llama? Yes, but use extra caution. Avoid casting or using a tilt table in late pregnancy. Trim the llama in a standing position with gentle restraint. If the animal is uncomfortable, postpone trimming until after delivery. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on handling pregnant females. ### What should I do if my alpaca is suddenly lame? Examine the foot for foreign bodies, swelling, heat, or discharge. Clean the foot and look for abscesses or cracks. If the cause is not obvious or the lameness persists, isolate the animal and call a veterinarian. Sudden lameness often indicates an abscess or injury that requires professional care. ### Can overgrown hooves cause permanent damage? Yes. Chronic overgrowth can alter hoof shape permanently, cause joint stress, and lead to arthritis. It can also cause cracks that allow infection to enter the hoof. Regular trimming prevents these complications and maintains normal hoof function. ### Do alpacas and llamas need hoof care in winter? Yes. Hoof growth continues year-round, though it may slow in cold weather. Wet winter conditions can soften hooves and increase the risk of foot rot. Continue trimming on schedule and provide dry bedding to protect foot health during winter months. ## Related Farming Guides - [Goat Health Management Vaccination Biosecurity Disease Prevention](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-health-management-vaccination-biosecurity-disease-prevention) - [Livestock Health Key Performance Indicators](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/livestock-health-key-performance-indicators) - [Rabbit Farming Housing Feeding Breeding Welfare And Health Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/rabbits/rabbit-farming-housing-feeding-breeding-welfare-and-health-observation) - [Computer Vision Livestock Health Welfare Observation](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/computer-vision-livestock-health-welfare-observation) - [Sheep Shearing Preparation Handling And Post Shearing Care](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-shearing-preparation-handling-and-post-shearing-care) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Water Buffalo Genetic Improvement and Breeding Programs](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-genetic-improvement-breeding-programs) * [Camel Farm Biosecurity: Disease Prevention and Quarantine Protocols](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/camel-farm-biosecurity-disease-prevention-quarantine-protocols) * [Water Buffalo Farm Equipment and Infrastructure](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/water-buffalo-farm-equipment-infrastructure) ## References and Further Reading - [www.fao.org](https://www.fao.org/dad-is) - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Animal Production and Protection](https://www.ars.usda.gov/animal-production-and-protection). USDA Agricultural Research Service. - [Animal and Veterinary Resources](https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.