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Enterotoxaemia in Goats: Pulpy Kidney Welfare

Enterotoxaemia (pulpy kidney disease) is a common and rapidly fatal condition in goats. This guide covers welfare recognition and prevention.

Key Facts

Enterotoxaemia is caused by Clostridium perfringens type D toxin
Rapidly growing, well-nourished goats are most commonly affected
Death often occurs suddenly with minimal warning signs
When signs do occur, they include neurological signs, abdominal pain, and collapse
Vaccination is highly effective and is the cornerstone of prevention
Kids require colostral immunity from vaccinated does and boosting at weaning

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred enterotoxaemia management prioritises prevention as treatment of affected animals is rarely successful. Vaccination of does before kidding provides passive immunity via colostrum. Booster vaccination of kids at 4-6 weeks and 10-12 weeks provides active immunity. Dietary management avoiding sudden access to high-energy feeds reduces the clostridial proliferation that triggers toxin production. Treatment with antitoxin may help very early cases but access and cost limit utility.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate does before kidding with appropriate clostridial vaccines
Boost kids at 4-6 weeks and again at 10-12 weeks of age
Introduce high-energy feeds gradually to reduce clostridial overgrowth risk
Contact your vet immediately for any goat showing sudden neurological signs or collapse