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Sulphur-induced polioencephalomalacia in lambs
1Scottish Agricultural College Veterinary Services (Edinburgh), Bush Estate, Penicuik, Midlothian.
The Veterinary Record
|April 6, 1996
Summary
High sulfur in lamb feed caused polioencephalomalacia (polio), a brain disease. Parenteral vitamin B1 administration to at-risk lambs halted further cases, aiding recovery.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Neurology
- Ruminant Nutrition
Background:
- Polioencephalomalacia (polio) is a neurological disease in ruminants.
- Outbreaks can be linked to dietary imbalances, particularly high sulfur intake.
- Early identification of clinical signs is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an outbreak of polioencephalomalacia in young sheep.
- To identify the potential dietary cause and clinical presentation.
- To evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of two sheep flocks (Swaledale and Scottish Blackface lambs).
- Clinical examination and case history documentation.
- Dietary analysis of concentrate ration for sulfur content.
Main Results:
- Polioencephalomalacia affected 16/46 Swaledale and 5/25 Scottish Blackface lambs.
- Clinical signs included depression, central blindness, and head-pressing.
- Parenteral vitamin B1 administration halted new cases and promoted recovery.
Conclusions:
- High dietary sulfur (0.43%) in concentrate rations can trigger polioencephalomalacia in lambs.
- Clinical signs observed were consistent with polioencephalomalacia, excluding certain neurological signs.
- Parenteral vitamin B1 is an effective treatment to prevent further cases and aid recovery.
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