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Hypercalcemia and hypervitaminosis D in two lambs
J R Roberson1, W S Swecker, L L Hullender
1Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061-0442, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|April 8, 2000
Summary
Hypervitaminosis D caused weakness and failure to thrive in two lambs. Treatment involved saline solution and a new milk replacer, leading to a favorable response.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Nutrition
- Toxicology
Background:
- Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone health in young animals.
- Overexposure to vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia, a serious condition.
- Milk replacers and supplements are common sources of vitamins for young livestock.
Observation:
- Two 17-day-old crossbred male lambs presented with weakness and failure to thrive.
- Clinical signs suggested hypercalcemia as the primary issue.
- The lambs' diet, including milk replacer and injectable vitamin D, was investigated as a potential cause.
Findings:
- Hypervitaminosis D was diagnosed as the cause of hypercalcemia.
- The exact source of vitamin D toxicity (milk replacer or injectable product) remained unconfirmed.
- Lambs showed positive response to treatment with saline solution and a different milk replacer.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of accurate vitamin D dosing in animal feed and supplements.
- Proper management of milk replacers and vitamin D supplementation is crucial to prevent toxicity in young lambs.
- Prompt diagnosis and supportive care, including fluid therapy and dietary changes, can effectively manage hypervitaminosis D in lambs.