Camelids

Question 1

What is a dromedary?

Answer 1

A dromedary is a one-humped camel or an Arabian camel. Scientific name: Camelus dromedarius

Question 2

What is choanal atresia?

Answer 2

Choanal atresia is one of the most common congenital defects in alpacas. The normal opening between the nasal and pharyngeal areas is blocked by membranous tissue and/or bone. Euthanasia is typically recommended as prognosis is poor even w/surgical correction

Question 3

What are signs of choanal atresia?

Answer 3

Dyspnea, prolonged and difficult expiration, open-mouthed breathing, choking and gagging while nursing, cyanosis, weakness, lack of weight gain, and aerophagia

Question 4

What other congenital abnormalities could an animal with choanal atresia have?

Answer 4

Polydactyly, cardiac, renal, and/or reproductive organ defects

Question 5

What meningeal worm frequently infects llamas and alpacas?

Answer 5

Parelaphostrongylus tenuis, aka the deer worm or meningeal deer worm. Definitive host is the white-tailed deer, but llamas and alpacas are aberrant hosts.

Question 6

What are the signs of Parelaphostrongylus tenuis in llamas and alpacas?

Answer 6

Neurological signs include: hypermetria, ataxia, stiffness, muscle weakness, posterior paresis, paralysis, arching neck, and circling. Clinical signs generally begin in the hind limbs and progress to the front limbs

Question 7

What parasite is suspected to be the most common cause of diarrhea in adult camels in the US?

Answer 7

Whipworms - treat with fenbendazole (Panacur)

Question 8

What is the only type of mange to infect camels?

Answer 8

Sarcoptic mange (scabies), caused by Sarcoptes scarbiei var. cameli

Most common in winter when camels huddle together for warmth

Typically starts around the head and neck then spreads to the rest of the body