Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

What bacterial disease affects both sheep and goats when the animal has a wound?

1. Tetanus

2. Foot rot

3. Pinkeye

4. Listeriosis

The correct answer is: Tetanus

Tetanus is a serious bacterial disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil and can enter the body through wounds, particularly deep puncture wounds. This disease affects both sheep and goats, leading to muscle stiffness, spasms, and potentially death if not treated promptly. In livestock, the risk of developing tetanus is heightened following injuries or surgical procedures that allow the bacteria to enter through breaks in the skin or other tissues. In contrast, the other options either do not primarily involve wounds or affect different conditions. For instance, foot rot is a contagious bacterial infection affecting the hooves of sheep and goats, but it is not directly related to wounds on the body. Pinkeye is an ocular condition caused by bacteria that typically affects the eye rather than entering through wounds. Lastly, listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes, primarily affects the nervous system and is not specifically linked to wounds in these animals. Therefore, tetanus stands out as the correct answer due to its direct association with wounds and its impact on both sheep and goats.