CDT Vaccine Schedule for Goats
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.
Vaccination Schedule
Enter a kid's birth date to get its exact CDT dates — first dose, the essential booster, and the first annual. Works for a single kid or a whole crop born the same day.
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 |
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.
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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
When do you give goats the CDT vaccine?
Kids get a first dose at 4 to 6 weeks and a booster 3 to 4 weeks later, then an annual booster for life. Vaccinate pregnant does 4 to 6 weeks before kidding, and give new goats with unknown history a dose on arrival plus a booster 3 to 4 weeks later.
Why is the CDT booster so important?
A single CDT dose in a naive goat gives minimal immunity. The booster 3 to 4 weeks later is what builds real protection, so skipping it leaves the goat effectively unvaccinated. It's the dose people most often forget.
What does the CDT vaccine protect against?
Two clostridial threats: enterotoxemia (overeating disease) from Clostridium perfringens types C and D, and tetanus from Clostridium tetani. Both are common, often fatal, and preventable with a vaccine that costs under a dollar a dose.
How do you give a CDT shot to a goat?
Subcutaneously (under the skin), typically 2 mL, tenting the skin over the ribs or in the armpit with a 20-gauge needle. Keep the vaccine refrigerated, never frozen, and use a fresh needle per goat or group to avoid abscesses.
Does CDT treat a goat that's already sick?
No. CDT prevents disease by building immunity before exposure; it does not treat an active infection. A goat that has never been vaccinated and gets into the grain bin is unprotected, which is why timing and the booster matter.
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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