Respiratory Disease in Goats: Welfare and Prevention
Respiratory disease is a leading cause of mortality and welfare compromise in goats, with prevention through management and vaccination more effective than treatment.
Key Facts
- Pasteurella and Mannheimia bacteria are the primary agents of fatal pneumonia in goats
- Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae contributes to chronic respiratory disease as in sheep
- Young kids are most vulnerable to fatal respiratory disease in the first weeks of life
- Stress from weaning, transport, and mixing predisposes to respiratory disease outbreaks
- Vaccination reduces Pasteurella-related mortality when administered appropriately
Welfare Considerations
Respiratory disease welfare impact in goats ranges from mild chronic coughing to acute fatal pneumonia. Kids with respiratory disease deteriorate rapidly and require prompt antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment to survive. Adult goats with chronic respiratory disease experience reduced exercise tolerance, weight loss, and the discomfort of persistent coughing. Prevention through excellent ventilation in housed goats, minimizing stress, appropriate vaccination, and sourcing animals from clean herds reduces the respiratory disease burden. Early identification and treatment of individual cases prevents progression to more severe welfare compromise.
What You Can Do
- Ensure excellent ventilation in goat housing at all times
- Vaccinate goats against Pasteurella as directed by your vet
- Monitor kids closely in the first weeks of life for respiratory signs
- Minimize stress events particularly in young or recently weaned kids
- Seek prompt veterinary treatment for any goat showing respiratory distress