This article was originally shown in the Spring 2020 issue of OMAFRA’s Dairy Goat Digest
Cases of enterocolitis (inflammation of both the small intestine and colon) in adult does caused by Clostridium perfringens type D have increased over the past several years. These cases tend to present differently from the classical enterotoxemia sudden death syndrome (pulpy kidney disease) in sheep caused by the same bacterium. Adult does develop recurring bouts of diarrhea (usually 2-4 days duration), are dull and may have decreased appetite and milk production. More severely affected animals are dehydrated, may develop bloody diarrhea, and exhibit abdominal pain and depression. Death may follow.
At postmortem examination, does are typically in good body condition, dehydrated, and may or may not have external evidence of diarrhea. Lesions in the intestinal tract range from subtle to severe inflammation with hemorrhage of the small intestines and colon (Figure 1).
A recent feed change is commonly reported in dairy goat farms experiencing an outbreak of clostridial enterocolitis. Rumen bacteria do not have time to adjust to the new ration, causing a large amount of carbohydrates to pass through to the intestines, where Clostridium perfringens reside. The increase in carbohydrates allow the bacteria to multiply quickly. Clostridium perfringens type D produces a toxin, which in large quantities results in disease. Changes in feeding practices, feeding grain in the parlour and sudden changes in weather have also been associated with disease.
Small ruminants, especially goats, are very susceptible to enterotoxemia. It is strongly recommended that all goats be vaccinated against clostridial diseases as part of any basic herd health program. However, antibody levels tend to drop quickly in goats post-vaccination, which means they need to be vaccinated more frequently than sheep or cattle.
KEYS TO PREVENTING CLOSTRIDIAL INFECTION IN GOATS
- Develop a vaccination program to ensure that kids and mature goats are properly vaccinated.
- vaccinate kids at 12 and 16 weeks of age (primary series) NOTE: the timing of the primary series may change depending on the vaccination status of the does and management practices in the herd. Discuss the situation with your herd veterinarian in order to maximize immunity.
- vaccinate does every 3 to 4 months (don’t forget the bucks). NOTE: all animals must have a primary series of vaccinations
- Dietary management is also key.
- Review feeding frequency, access to fiber, and avoid sudden feed changes and overeating.
- Work will you herd’s veterinarian and nutritionist to investigate feed-related health issues and to minimize the risks associated with feed changes.