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Measuring Lactase Enzymatic Activity in the Teaching Lab
Published on: August 6, 2018
Secondary lactose intolerance in a neonatal goat
J S Weese1, D G Kenney, A O'Connor
1Department of Clinical Studies, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|August 10, 2000
Summary
Neonatal Toggenburg goat kids experiencing diarrhea may develop lactose intolerance secondary to cryptosporidiosis. Supplementation with lactase enzyme can improve symptoms in affected kids.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Neonatal diarrhea is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in goat herds.
- Persistent diarrhea and poor body condition were observed in a Toggenburg kid.
Observation:
- A herd experienced high rates of illness and death in neonatal kids due to diarrhea.
- Lactose intolerance was diagnosed in a Toggenburg kid using lactose tolerance and glucose absorption tests.
- Affected kids showed the presence of Cryptosporidium organisms in fecal samples during acute diarrhea episodes.
Findings:
- Lactose intolerance was diagnosed in a Toggenburg kid, confirmed by diagnostic tests.
- The kid's condition improved with lactase enzyme supplementation, indicating a specific treatment response.
- Cryptosporidium infection was identified in multiple affected kids, suggesting a common etiological agent.
Implications:
- Cryptosporidiosis is a potential cause of secondary lactose intolerance in neonatal goats.
- Early diagnosis and lactase supplementation can be beneficial for managing lactose intolerance in kids.
- Understanding this link can improve herd management strategies to reduce neonatal losses.
