Mycoplasmal Pneumonia in Sheep: Chronic Respiratory Welfare
Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae and other mycoplasmas cause chronic respiratory disease in sheep, with welfare implications particularly significant in housed or intensively managed flocks.
Key Facts
- Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae is a primary respiratory pathogen in sheep worldwide
- Causes chronic coughing, nasal discharge, and poor thrive in affected animals
- Often predisposes to secondary bacterial pneumonia with higher mortality
- Spreads readily through close contact in housed flocks
- Vaccination and health management programs reduce disease burden
Welfare Considerations
Mycoplasmal pneumonia in sheep creates chronic welfare suffering that is easily normalized because affected animals often continue to produce without obvious severe illness. However, chronically coughing sheep experience respiratory discomfort, reduced ability to compete for resources, and the immunosuppression that invites secondary bacterial infections. Respiratory scoring systems allow objective assessment of flock respiratory welfare and tracking of management interventions. Housing design, ventilation, stocking density, and vaccination all contribute to reducing the respiratory disease burden and associated welfare impact in intensive systems.
What You Can Do
- Monitor flock respiratory health using scoring systems
- Ensure excellent ventilation in housed sheep — this is the single most important intervention
- Manage stocking density to reduce respiratory disease spread
- Work with your vet on targeted treatment protocols for flare-ups
- Consider vaccination programs for Pasteurella in high-risk housed flocks