Camelids, particularly llamas and alpacas, are unique animals that are becoming increasingly popular for farming, companionship, and fiber production. However, like all animals, camelids are susceptible to certain diseases that owners should be able to recognize and manage to ensure their health and well-being. Our Church’s Mobile Veterinary Service team provides information about common camelid diseases.
Camelid disease 1: Choke
Choke is a relatively common condition in camelids where food or foreign material becomes lodged in the esophagus, preventing normal swallowing. The issue typically occurs when a camelid eats too quickly or consumes food that is too large or dry. Poor dental health can also contribute, since animals with dental problems may not chew their food properly, increasing the likelihood that large pieces will get stuck.
Choke signs in camelids include excessive drooling or regurgitation, which may appear as frothy or bubbly discharge from the mouth or nose, repeated swallowing attempts, coughing or gagging, and distress or anxiety. In some cases, owners may notice a visible swelling along the neck where the obstruction is located.
Management tips for choke include:
- Minimize stress by keeping the camelid calm and quiet.
- Contact our Church’s Mobile Veterinary Service team, because complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, can result.
- Do not push water, food, or medications down the animal’s throat, as this could exacerbate the obstruction or lead to aspiration.
- To prevent future episodes, ensure that food is the appropriate size and moisture, feed smaller, more frequent meals, and schedule regular dental check-ups.
Camelid disease 2: Heat stress
Heat stress is a significant concern for camelids, who are adapted to cooler temperatures and whose thick fiber coats can make them particularly vulnerable to overheating. Signs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, a body temperature above 104 degrees, decreased appetite, and staggering or collapse. Heat-stressed camelids require immediate relief. Recommendations include:
- Move the animal to a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Encourage the animal to drink, but do not force water in their mouth.
- Apply cool water to the camelid’s legs, belly, and neck. Don’t use ice-cold water, which can cause shock.
- Monitor the camelid’s temperature until it drops below 104.
- If the camelid’s condition does not improve quickly or if symptoms seem severe, contact our team immediately to help prevent serious complications, such as organ failure.
Camelid disease 3: Munge
“Munge” is a term commonly used to describe a skin condition in camelids. The condition primarily manifests as crusty, scaly lesions around the nose, lips, and face, and sometimes extends to other parts of the body. While “munge” is a colloquial term, the condition is often associated with dermatological issues, such as idiopathic nasal/perioral hyperkeratotic dermatosis.
Munge treatment can be challenging and often requires a multi-faceted approach, including topical treatments, systemic medications, nutritional support, and environmental management. Regular veterinary check-ups and early intervention at the first skin problem signs are key to preventing disease progression.
Camelid disease 4: Johne’s disease
Johne’s disease is a chronic, contagious bacterial infection that affects camelids’ intestines. The disease is caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) and is characterized by weight loss, diarrhea, and eventually death if left untreated. The disease is primarily transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, which can occur when camelids graze on pastures contaminated with feces from infected animals.
No cure exists for Johne’s disease and treatment mainly focuses on supportive care, such as hydration and nutritional support. In most cases, the affected animals must be culled to prevent disease spread in the herd. Preventing Johne’s disease involves avoiding overcrowding, ensuring feed and water sources are clean and not contaminated with feces, maintaining clean, dry living conditions, and isolating any suspected or confirmed cases. Sheep, goats, and cattle can also contract the disease and have the same pathological signs as described. If an animal tests positive, the most proactive approach for prevention is to test and cull each animal.
Recognizing and managing common camelid diseases is essential for maintaining herd health and productivity. Regular monitoring, preventive care, and prompt veterinary intervention can make all the difference in ensuring your camelids thrive.
Contact our Church’s Mobile Veterinary Service if you have questions or concerns about the health of your camelids.
Leave A Comment