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My goat's horn is injured. What first aid can I give before the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | 60 lbs

When I was feeding me goat tonight I noticed this wound under his horn. I am going to call my vet tomorrow when they open, but looking to get feedback on what it is and how I can treat it until my vet can make it out.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 6th, 2018

This commonly happens when they break their horns at the base. The tissue at the base can overgrow within a few days when injured like this. The best thing you can do is flush the area with warm water for five minutes. I do not recommend putting any soaps or antiseptics on the wound, because this can make it worse. If you can bandage the wound after flushing, then this would be helpful to prevent infection. Otherwise, it would be best to flush the wound once a day until the vet can get there. It's definitely best for the vet to see Louie soon, because these wounds commonly get infected; and if left for too long, the infection can get in the sinuses, which is very difficult to treat. Often times, these horn injuries require surgery and the horn may need to be removed. I hope that helps and Louie gets better soon.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. So sorry this happened to Louie. Honestly, I don't think you should do anything to it at this point. Whatever you do is not going to help much and without me being able to examine it in person I don't want to tell you something that might be harmful. I am a bit worried about the black areas and the bulging pink mass. I think you should just wait until your vet comes out. Just keep him inside, if possible. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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