Pregnancy Toxaemia

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 which a poor body condition score.

Clinical Signs

Mainly neurological signs are apparent as a result of the hypoglycaemic state of the animal. Ewes are often depressed and not aware of their surrounding, they can adopt an unusual posture which may progress to ataxia or recumbency. Some appear blind and there may be trembling and twitching of the face and ears. Ewes often grind their teeth and make chewing movements. They are also anorexic and ay have breathing difficulties and a nasal discharge. Some ewes abort which may result in septicaemia.

Laboratory Tests

Blood work will often reveal a hypoglycaemia and a high ß hydroxybutyrate (BHB)(which is one of the ketone bodies) level, hyperkalaemia is also often present due to ketoacidosis. BHB is a more reliable measure of disease as not all animals show hypoglycaemia and some even are hyperglycaemic. On urine analysis ketones may be present.