Outbreak of pregnancy toxemia in a mixed-breed dairy goat herd
In March 2014, four late-gestational does (three Saanen and one La Mancha) presented to the Cornell University Ambulatory Service with presumptive pregnancy toxemia. The does were part of a 104 doe herd consisting of Saanen, French Alpine, and La Mancha breeds. Lethargy, tachypnea and distal limb edema were identified on physical examination of all four animals. Venous blood samples contained elevated blood -hydroxybutyrate concentrations at> 5 mmol/L. Based on presumptive diagnosis of pregnancy toxemia, does received 200 mL of intravenous 5% dextrose, and 60 mL of subcutaneous 23% calcium borogluconate. They were also given 60 mL of Power Punch® goat drench (marketed by Vets Plus Inc.) by mouth, twice daily for five days. All four does died at kidding with no live fetuses. Herd investigation revealed inconsistency in nutritional management of dry does which likely precipitated the outbreak. Pregnancy toxemia is an economically important disease for small ruminant producers. Proper management minimizes but does not eliminate the risk of outbreaks. More research is needed to fully understand the pathogenesis of this disease.