Ensuring the health and growth of goats often requires a careful mix of supplements and medications. One product that is commonly used in goat farming is Prohibit, a broad-spectrum anthelmintic (dewormer) containing the active ingredient levamisole hydrochloride. It is especially useful for controlling gastrointestinal parasites, which can significantly affect the productivity and well-being of goats. However, knowing how to mix Prohibit correctly for goats is crucial for both its effectiveness and safety. Improper use can lead to underdosing, resistance, or even toxicity.
Understanding What Prohibit Is
Prohibit is a concentrated powder dewormer that is mixed with water before administration. It is widely used in livestock, especially in goats and sheep, to control internal parasites such as barber pole worms (Haemonchus contortus), which are a leading cause of anemia and death in goats worldwide.
Main Features of Prohibit
- Active ingredient: Levamisole Hydrochloride
- Effective against roundworms and stomach worms
- Used as an oral drench after dilution
- Requires accurate mixing for proper dosage
Why Mixing Prohibit Correctly Matters
Mixing Prohibit incorrectly can lead to either overdosing or underdosing. Overdosing may result in toxicity, which can cause muscle tremors, salivation, and in severe cases, death. Underdosing, on the other hand, may not effectively eliminate the parasites and could contribute to resistance over time. This is why understanding the mixing ratio and application is critical for all goat farmers.
How to Mix Prohibit for Goats: Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin, ensure you have the correct tools and protective equipment. Gloves are recommended, and a syringe or drenching gun will be needed to administer the solution properly to your goats.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
- Prohibit powder (usually sold in 52-gram sachets)
- Clean measuring container (graduated)
- Stirring rod or spoon
- Distilled or clean tap water
- Protective gloves
- Oral dosing syringe or drenching gun
Step 2: Understand the Mixing Ratio
The standard mixing instruction for Prohibit is to dilute the entire 52-gram packet in 387 mL of water to make a concentrated drench solution. This will result in a dosage strength of 13.5 mg of levamisole per mL.
If you don’t need to mix the entire packet, you can scale down proportionally. For example, to mix a smaller amount, dissolve 1 gram of Prohibit powder in 7.44 mL of water.
Step 3: Mixing Procedure
- Use a clean container to measure the required amount of water.
- Slowly add the correct amount of Prohibit powder into the water while stirring continuously.
- Ensure the powder is fully dissolved and there are no clumps.
- Once mixed, the solution should be used within 24 hours.
Do not store the unused solution for long periods, as it may lose effectiveness and pose risks.
Proper Dosage for Goats
Prohibit is administered orally using a syringe or drenching gun. The general dosage for goats is 2 mL of mixed solution per 25 pounds (11.36 kg) of body weight. This equals approximately 5.4 mg of levamisole per kg of body weight.
Dosage Table Example
- 25 lbs (11.36 kg): 2 mL
- 50 lbs (22.7 kg): 4 mL
- 75 lbs (34 kg): 6 mL
- 100 lbs (45.4 kg): 8 mL
Always weigh your goats before administering any medication. Do not guess the weight, as incorrect dosing is one of the main causes of treatment failure or overdose.
Best Practices for Administering Prohibit
Using Prohibit correctly not only requires accurate mixing and dosing, but also careful handling during administration. Administer the oral drench slowly, making sure the goat swallows the liquid. Avoid pouring the solution too quickly to prevent choking or aspiration.
Tips for Successful Drenching
- Restrain the goat gently but firmly
- Insert the syringe into the side of the mouth, over the tongue
- Depress the plunger slowly to allow swallowing
- Observe the goat for any reactions after dosing
Withdrawal Periods and Safety Considerations
After administering Prohibit, it’s essential to follow the withdrawal periods before consuming milk or meat from treated goats. The withdrawal time ensures that no harmful residues remain in the products consumed by humans.
- Meat withdrawal: 35 days after treatment
- Milk withdrawal: Consult veterinarian or product label (not officially labeled for lactating goats in all regions)
Never use Prohibit on goats that are weak, sick, or heavily infested without consulting a veterinarian. In such cases, even the correct dose might be too harsh on the animal’s system.
Signs of Overdose and What to Do
If too much Prohibit is administered, the goat may show signs of toxicity. This may include muscle trembling, uncoordinated movement, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, or lethargy.
Immediate Actions
- Stop any further treatment
- Contact a veterinarian immediately
- Keep the animal calm and in a quiet place
In some cases, supportive therapy may be needed to help the goat recover. Timely medical attention is critical.
Storing Prohibit Safely
Store Prohibit powder in a cool, dry place away from children and animals. It should be kept in its original packaging and protected from moisture. Always read the label before use and check for the expiration date.
Once mixed with water, the solution should be used within 24 hours. Discard any leftover solution after that time to avoid accidental misuse or degradation.
Using Prohibit as Part of a Worm Management Program
Prohibit should not be the only dewormer used repeatedly. To reduce the risk of developing resistance, rotate different classes of anthelmintics over time and integrate pasture management practices, such as rotational grazing and fecal testing.
Recommended Practices
- Do fecal egg counts before and after treatment to monitor effectiveness
- Use Prohibit during high-risk worm seasons (spring and fall)
- Combine with herbal or natural control methods when appropriate
- Separate young kids from heavily infested areas
A strategic approach improves long-term parasite control and reduces the need for frequent deworming.
Safe and Effective Use of Prohibit for Goats
Mixing Prohibit correctly for goats is an important task that requires attention to detail. From measuring the right amount of water and powder to administering the accurate dose based on body weight, every step matters. When used responsibly, Prohibit can be a powerful tool in managing internal parasites and keeping your goats healthy and productive. Always follow label directions, observe withdrawal periods, and consult with a veterinarian for best results. With proper use, you can improve the health of your herd and maintain effective parasite control for the long term.