Also known as: Twin Lamb Disease


Description

A disease affecting ewes during the last few weeks of gestation. Mainly affects twin or multiple bearing ewes. The condition occurs when the ewe does not recieve an adequate energy supply during a time when the rapidly growing foetuses drain carbohydrate stores. It is a serious condition which can be fatal and most frequently affects lowland flocks.


Signalment

It is seen more frequently in older ewes and those carrying multiple lambs.

Diagnosis

Clinical Signs

  • clinical signs (neurological)
    • apparent blindness
    • dullness
    • convulsions
    • coma
  • sequelae
    • foetuses die
    • apparent recovery in ewe until toxaemia from the decomposing foetuses results in the ewe's death

Treatment

Prognosis

References