CDT Vaccine Schedule for Goats

Last updated: March 2026 · 5 min read

If your goats get only one vaccine, it should be CDT. This vaccine protects against Clostridium perfringens types C and D (which cause enterotoxemia, also called overeating disease) and Clostridium tetani (tetanus). Both diseases are common, often fatal, and easily preventable with a cheap vaccine that costs less than a dollar per dose.

What CDT Protects Against

Enterotoxemia (Overeating Disease)

Caused by Clostridium perfringens types C and D — bacteria that are normally present in the gut at low levels. When a goat experiences a sudden change in feed (too much grain, lush spring pasture, or any dietary disruption), these bacteria multiply rapidly and produce fatal toxins. Kids are especially vulnerable. Enterotoxemia can kill within hours, often with no warning signs. Vaccination is the only reliable prevention.

Tetanus

Caused by Clostridium tetani, which enters through wounds — banding, disbudding, castration, hoof trims, kidding injuries, or any break in the skin. The toxin causes rigid paralysis ("lockjaw"). It's almost always fatal in goats once symptoms appear. Vaccination provides reliable protection.

Key point: CDT doesn't treat existing infections — it prevents them by building immunity before exposure. This is why timing matters. A goat that's never been vaccinated and gets into the grain bin is unprotected.

Vaccination Schedule

Kids

Age	Dose	Notes
4-6 weeks	First dose	Give subcutaneously (SQ). This is the primary dose.
3-4 weeks later	Booster	Essential. The first dose alone does not provide full protection. The booster completes the initial series.

Adults

Timing	Who	Notes
Annual booster	All goats	Once yearly. Many producers give boosters in spring before kidding season.
4-6 weeks pre-kidding	Pregnant does	Critical. Boosts antibodies that pass to kids through colostrum. Time it so the booster is 2 to 6 weeks before the due date.

New Goats (unknown vaccination history)

Step	Timing
First dose	On arrival (during quarantine)
Booster	3-4 weeks after first dose
Annual boosters	Every 12 months going forward

Common mistake: Giving only one dose and thinking the goat is protected. A single CDT dose in a naive animal provides minimal immunity. The booster 3 to 4 weeks later is what builds real protection. Don't skip it.

How to Give the Vaccine

Route: Subcutaneous (SQ) — under the skin, not into the muscle.
Location: Tent the skin over the ribs or in the axillary (armpit) area. Avoid the neck in show goats (can cause lumps).
Dose: Follow the label — typically 2 mL per goat regardless of size.
Needle: 20-gauge, 3/4 to 1 inch needle. Use a new needle for each goat or at minimum each group to prevent abscess.
Storage: Keep refrigerated (36 to 46 degrees F). Never freeze. Discard expired vaccine. Protect from sunlight.

Other Vaccines to Consider

CDT is the universal must-have. Depending on your situation, you might also consider:

CL (Caseous Lymphadenitis): If CL is present in your area or herd. Vaccine available but controversial — discuss with your vet.
Rabies: Recommended if rabies is present in your area. Off-label in goats but commonly used. Annual booster.
Pneumonia vaccines (Mannheimia, Pasteurella): Consider for herds with chronic respiratory issues or high-stress situations (shows, transport).
Chlamydia (abortion vaccine): If enzootic abortion is a problem in your herd.

Record keeping tip: Log the vaccine name, lot number, expiration date, and administration date for every goat. If a goat has a reaction or a vaccine proves ineffective, this information is essential for troubleshooting and for showing to your vet.

Suggested Annual Calendar

When	Who	What
January-February	Pregnant does due March-April	CDT booster (4-6 weeks before kidding)
March-April	Whole herd	Annual CDT booster (combine with spring health day)
April-May	Spring kids at 4-6 weeks	CDT first dose
May-June	Spring kids at 8-10 weeks	CDT booster
As needed	New arrivals	CDT first dose on arrival, booster 3-4 weeks later

Track vaccinations across your herd

Herd Manager's herd vaccination tool records CDT and other vaccines for all selected goats at once. Track lot numbers, set booster reminders, and never miss a due date.

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