The impression that most alpaca poo problems are related to parasitism with the odd chance of something else thrown in the mix is one easily accepted. Although parasitism is a major problem, Johne's disease is also a problem and more prevalent than thought.
Johne's disease is caused by bacteria in the same family as tuberculosis. It does most of its damage in the gastrointestinal tract, not in the lungs. It is/was believed to be in alpacas (but similar to the bovine form whereby it could take years to manifest itself), and would show as progressive weight loss and ill-thrift over a number of months to years, eventually leading to death.
This may still be the case in some situations but a more aggressive form is also out there. It is much more rapid in onset and can see animals waste away and die over weeks to months with an intermittent scour that will not respond to any form of treatment.
Johne's is spread by the faecal/oral route from animal to animal. It is more commonly a disease that spreads when animals are overcrowded and conditions mean they are eating closer to the ground and to poo piles. Unfortunately once they contract it, we are unable to treat it as antibiotics do not work. It is also very hard to screen for as it is not readily detectable on poo or blood samples.
What do we do about it? If you have any animals that scour or are losing weight and they don't respond to drenching, then seek advice!
For further information on Johne's disease in alpacas or other alpaca-related matters, contact Peter Aitken on 06 356 5011 or at admin@totallyvets.co.nz.
