Livestock

Respiratory Disease in Goats: Welfare and Management

Welfare-focused guide to respiratory disease in goats — a significant welfare and production concern across dairy and meat systems.

Key Facts

Respiratory disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in goats worldwide
Mycoplasma species are particularly important pathogens in goats — causing contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP)
CCPP is one of the most severe respiratory diseases of goats — causing acute pleuritis, pain, and high mortality
Other common respiratory pathogens include Pasteurella and Mannheimia species
Goats that survive severe pneumonia may develop chronic changes with permanent welfare impact
Biosecurity — preventing introduction of new pathogens — is the foundation of respiratory disease prevention
Vaccination against the most common local pathogens is available in some regions
Housing with adequate ventilation significantly reduces respiratory disease burden

Welfare Significance

Respiratory disease causes significant suffering in goat populations globally. CCPP in particular is a devastating disease that causes acute severe pain and high mortality. Prevention through biosecurity, vaccination, and appropriate housing design is far more welfare-protective than treatment of established disease.

What You Can Do

Implement strict biosecurity protocols before introducing new animals to the herd
Ensure goat housing has adequate cross-ventilation without draughts
Vaccinate against locally important respiratory pathogens
Seek immediate veterinary assessment for any goat showing respiratory signs