Arthropathy in white-tailed deer and a moose

Degenerative lesions were found in the skeletal system of 20 to 128 white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) examined. Similar changes were found in an aged male moose (Alces alces). Arthropathy involving the stifle joint was present in 60% (15/25) of male deer 4 years of age or older, and in 16.7% (4/25) of females in the same age range. Vertebral osteophytes were not found in any of 62 female deer, nor in male deer less than 6 years of age, but were present in 50% (7/14) of males 6 year of age or older. The possible etiology and significance of the conditions are discussed.