During lactation, there is a common problem that endangers the survival of lambs and kids: respiratory disease. This pathology is a great concern on all farms. What are the key points for its prevention?
A great concern
From approximately 18 days of age, the leading cause of mortality in lambs and kids is ovine respiratory complex (ORC).
ORC is a re-emerging problem in many areas, due to the regulation of antibiotic use
The symptoms that we can see in affected animals include coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, fever, nasal and ocular discharge, and loss of body condition.
Why and how do respiratory problems occur?
Several bacteria are involved in ORC, but M. haemolytica is the primary pathogen in most cases we encounter.
M. haemolytica, the main pathogen of ORC, is an opportunistic bacteria
M. haemolytica is part of the flora of the animal’s upper respiratory tract. When a stressful situation occurs that affects the immune system, it triggers the proliferation and migration of the bacteria to the lung.
When this occurs, M. haemolytica begins to release leukotoxin, which is the actual cause of the disease.
Leukotoxin causes necrosis in the lung tissue, generating lesions
How can we prevent and/or control it?
Minimize risk factors:
– Hygiene: properly clean and disinfect the bottles, teats, and tubes of the nursing machine.
– Density: animals should preferably be housed in small groups
– Temperature: the comfortable temperature for young animals is higher than for adults. Use spotlights if necessary.
– Ventilation: ensure air renewal, but avoid drafts.
– Stress: avoid stress factors such as group or pen changes, transportation, cold/heat, practices such as dehorning, other diseases, etc.
Colostrum: Apart from immunoglobulins, it also provides essential nutrients for the first days of life. Give it in the appropriate quantity and quality.
Vaccination: The PASTERBACT® vaccine can be administered at very early ages, to protect animals in the most vulnerable stage. To ensure maximum protection, it is necessary to vaccinate healthy animals, so it is important to control other concurrent diseases such as viruses or parasites and ensure adequate nutrition.
Conclusions
ORC is a great concern during lactation, but by applying specific preventive measures, we can reduce its incidence and impact.
ORC is not only important because of its high mortality, but also because of indirect losses due to growth retardation.
Article written by:
Tania Perálvarez Puerta. Global Product Manager, Small Ruminants Franchise – HIPRA
