Comparison of topical application of oxytetracycline and four nonantibiotic solutions for treatment of papillomatous digital dermatitis in dairy cows

OBJECTIVE: To compare efficacy of topical treatment with oxytetracycline solution or 1 of 4 nonantibiotic solutions among dairy cows with papillomatous digital dermatitis (PDD). DESIGN: Randomized field trial. ANIMALS: 66 cows in a single herd. PROCEDURE: Cows were randomly assigned to be treated with oxytetracycline solution; a commercial formulation of soluble copper, peroxide compound, and a cationic agent; 5% copper sulfate solution; acidified ionized copper solution; hydrogen peroxide-peroxyacetic acid solution; or tap water. Cows were examined 14 and 30 days after initial treatment. During each examination, pain and lesion scores were recorded. RESULTS: On the basis of pain and lesion scores, oxytetracycline and the commercial formulation appeared equally effective for treatment of PDD and significantly more effective than 5% copper sulfate solution, acidified ionized copper solution, hydrogen peroxide-peroxyacetic acid solution, and tap water. Proportions of cows with signs of pain or visible lesions after treatment were significantly lower for cows treated with oxytetracycline or the commercial formulation than for cows in the other groups. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Oxytetracycline and a commercial formulation of soluble copper, peroxide compound, and a cationic agent appeared to be effective for treatment of PDD in dairy cows.