Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Example of a goat skeleton
Digestive diseases
Diarrhea (Scours):
Diarrhea is often a response to mistakes in feeding, such as an over-high
albumin content, an abrupt change in feed, too much concentrated feed, or feed that is rotten,
fermented, or frozen. It also can be caused by infectious diseases and by internal parasites.
Feed-related diarrhea is typically brothy and liquid, with a powerful smell. Watery stool
mixed with blood indicates an infection of some kind. Intermittent diarrhea is a sign of
worms.
The treatment for feed-related diarrhea is to withdraw concentrated feed and give plenty of
water and branches of fir, spruce, and pine. If the goat has a fever or other symptoms, or if
you suspect infection, consult a veterinarian. If diarrhea persists, check fecal samples for
worms. Prolonged diarrhea leads to dehydration and a rough coat. Kids should be treated im-
mediately because diarrhea can be fatal to them.
