Breath easily - why goats cough and have respiratory problems

David Harwood BVetMed, FRCVS looks at the signs and why early action is the best course of action.

- David Harwood

The respiratory system in goats is very similar to that of other animals. Problems can develop in the nasal chambers and sinuses, the larynx, trachea and bronchi carrying air in and out of the lungs and the pleura covering the lung and chest wall surfaces.

For the goat owner however the signs to look out for are coughing (either a sudden onset or a chronic cough that lingers), a nasal discharge and an increased respiratory rate. These signs may also be accompanied by a rise in temperature, and reluctance to feed. The normal respiratory rate in an adult goat is around 15 - 30 breaths/minute and around 20 - 40 breaths/minute in kids. By standing and observing your goats at rest you can get a good "feel" for what is their "normal" breathing behaviour, and hence recognise when this behaviour changes. As respiratory distress becomes more serious, you may see your goat move its elbows away from its chest and extend its head and neck forwards - in an attempt to increase air flow to the lungs - this is an indication that veterinary attention should be sought urgently. The normal nasal discharge in a goat is clear and minimal in amount.

Although these signs will generally indicate problems with the respiratory tract, a diagnosis and hence the correct treatment may need further investigation by your vet. The most useful test involves the use of a stethoscope over the lung field and trachea to more accurately decide whether your goat has pneumonia, pleurisy or bronchitis and to gauge its severity, possible cause and suitable treatment. Other approaches your vet may adopt include ultrasound examination, X rays, blood tests and examination of faeces for evidence of lungworm.

PROBLEMS IN MATURE GOATS: