As Alpacas constitute a very small component of our workload I would like to talk about some of the more common diseases that we encounter in the species we regularly treat, that are also seen in Alpacas.

Coccidiosis is a disease that we are currently seeing in weaner sheep, probably due to the concentration of young sheep being hand fed. Evidence of ill thrift in weaner alpacas may also be attributable to coccidiosis. Diagnosis of the condition can normally be done through a faecal sample where the characteristic oocyst will be seen. Once diagnosed, Amprolium 5mg/kg in feed or water as a one off dose is usually sufficient for control.

Worms are an ongoing problem in most species, alpacas being no exception, although alpacas don't appear to be particularly susceptible to the effects of worms Worm’s can be responsible for ill thrift in this species. Ivermectin 0.2mg/kg or Moxidectin (Cydectin) 14ml for a 70kg alpaca can be used to control the problem.

 

 

Rhododendron in flower

During lambing season Clostridial disease can be seen more in association with the birth process. Damage to the birth canal paves the way for clostridial disease to enter the body. With alpaca, vaccinating with a 5in1 clostridial vaccine is recommended. The normal protocol is to vaccinate the cria at 3 months of age and again at 4 months, then every 6 months. Not the usual 12 months as in other species, as often alpacas do not develop good immunity.

In our area granite soils are very common. This soil type is notoriously deficient in selenium. This can impact the well being of alpacas. If alpacas are running on known selenium deficient country, a selenium supplement would be advisable. Selenium deficiency can be determined through a blood test. Crias are the most susceptible, and a dose of 1mg of selenium being advisable where born in a deficient area.

Finally, on a precautionary note, should alpacas be grazing close to where garden plants are grown, like other species (such as sheep and goats) some of these may prove dangerous. High on the list would be rhododendron (see picture), where as few as 2 or 3 leaves are sufficient to make an animal violently ill within a few hours of ingestion. Clinically signs are colic, regurgitation of stomach content (vomit) and thrashing about on the ground. Symptomatic treatment with intravenous fluid support being required if the poisoned animal is to survive. There is no specific antidote to rhododendron poisoning. For the keen gardeners out there, this is the perfect excuse to keep the alpacas out of the garden.