In general alpacas are hardy animals and not prone to most diseases that cause problems in other livestock, such as sheep. Following is a list of common illnesses, their symptoms and remedies to cure the animal. In most cases, good quality food, clean water and additional shelter in combination with the illness specific remedies will heal the animal.
Rye Grass Staggers
One of the most common diseases in alpacas is caused by toxins produced by endophytes. Most perennial rye-grass species have been inoculated with these endophytes to protect it from insect parasites. The endophyte’s toxins infect the alpaca’s nerve system. The symptoms are obvious, a perceptible tremor of the head and neck, and in more sever cases, an unstable gait and even total loss of balance. It is important that staggers is treated as early as possible because prolonged sickness may result in permanent damage to the nerve system.
Treatment
At the first sign of head tremor, the animal must be removed from the infected pasture immediately. Feed the animal with Lucerne (hay or chaf), multi-feed nuts or other good quality meadow hay. Although the animal may not like to be locked up away form the fresh green grass, it is important to keep the animal on dry food until the symptoms have disappeared completely. However, because alpacas are herd animals, ensure that the separated alpaca has a buddy or at least can communicate with others.
Rickets
Rickets are caused by a lack of sunlight to crias during their first couple of months, especially when this falls in autumn/winter. Sunlight raises the natural levels of Vitamin D, which is essential for phosphate utilization needed for healthy bone growth. Rickets are easily recognisable; a round-backed posture, obvious discomfort when walking and showing a painful looking gait.
Treatment
Rickets can be successfully treated with vitamin D injections. At Cantharis we give preventative injections to our young alpacas 3 – 4 times during winter.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Other livestock alike, alpacas are susceptible to TB. The AANZ has set-up a voluntary scheme for alpaca owners to test for TB.
Poisonous Plants
Although alpacas are selective in choosing their diet, they like to nibble on most plants. A number of New Zealand native and imported plants have been identified to be more or less poisonous for alpacas. Be aware of the following plant species: Nightshades, Lilies, Solanums, Foxglove, Hemlock, Rhododendrons (!), Azaleas (!), Inkweed, Oleanders (!), Willow-weed, Tutu, Ragwort, Ngaio, Daytura, Jerusalem Cherry, Mallow, Buttercup, Yew & Laurel and Macrocarpa.
Facial Excema (FE)
Alpacas are sensitive to Facial Excema, caused by a fungus (Mycotoxin) in the pasture. The fungus can damage the animal’s liver which can be, in sufficient quantities, fatal. FE symptoms are difficult to detect. Many area provide spore count details and during period of high numbers (warm & humid), it is advisable to have your pastures sprayed with fungicide. In addition, supplementary feed of zinc increases the alpacas resistance.