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Why is my sheep's face and ears swollen? Is it photosensitization?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Farm Animal | Sheep | Female | unspayed | 55 lbs

I recently took a job of being a Sheppard to someones flock, I have no experience in the field of animals but love the job so far, I'm doing alright with what I can but I recently had male sheep develop a swollen face and ears, everyone says animal bite but I researched and came across photocinthisis in animals I understand how it activates and cause but what's the treatment I should us, he's already out of the sunlight

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 27th, 2019

This doesn't really look like classic photosensitization but it could be. Many skin lesions have a similar appearance. You really should have a local vet come out there to check her and get a proper diagnosis before you start treatment. If it is photosensitization it is usually due to ingestion of a toxin/weed in the pasture. So that would need to be identified and removed. Your vet can help you do that.

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