Pulpy Kidney
Pulpy Kidney, also known as Enterotoxaemia, is a common and serious disease in sheep caused by the bacterium Clostridium perfringens type D. This disease primarily affects lambs between 4 to 10 weeks old and finishing lambs over 6 months old. It can also sporadically affect adult sheep, particularly rams being prepared for mating.
Symptoms and Diagnosis 🩺
Pulpy Kidney disease is often peracute, meaning it progresses very quickly, often resulting in death within just a few hours. Here are some key symptoms to watch for:
- Sudden death, often with no prior signs of illness.
- Ataxia (loss of coordination) progressing to recumbency (lying down and unable to rise).
- Opisthotonos (severe muscle spasms causing the head and heels to bend backward) and convulsions.
- In rare cases, profound dullness and diarrhea.
Diagnosis is typically based on the history of sudden death and necropsy findings. Key necropsy signs include:
- Good body condition but rapid decomposition if necropsy is delayed.
- Marked purple discoloration of the skin and signs of early toxaemia.
- Soft and pulpy kidneys that disintegrate easily.
- Presence of glycosuria (glucose in urine).
Laboratory tests can confirm the presence of C. perfringens type D and its epsilon toxin in the intestinal contents.
Treatment 💊
Unfortunately, due to the rapid progression of Pulpy Kidney disease, treatment is rarely successful. Most affected animals are found dead before any treatment can be administered. In rare cases where the disease is caught early, supportive care and antibiotics may be attempted, but the prognosis is generally poor.
Prevention 🛡️
Prevention is the most effective strategy against Pulpy Kidney disease. Here are some key preventive measures:
- Vaccination: Ensure all sheep are vaccinated against clostridial diseases. A primary course of two doses followed by annual boosters is recommended. Vaccinate lambs from 3 to 4 months old, completing the program before weaning.
- Diet Management: Avoid sudden changes in diet, especially the introduction of high-carbohydrate concentrates. Gradually introduce new feeds to prevent overgrowth of C. perfringens in the gut.
- Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene and sanitation practices to reduce the risk of infection from contaminated soil and feces`[8]`.