Top 10 things to know for Camelids

Question 1

For camelid breeding:

1. What type of ovulators are camelids?
2. Describe the mating behaviour that is seen
3. Compare the length of gestation in llamas and alpacas
4. Are the seasonal breeders?

Answer 1

1. Induced ovulators
2. Female “cushes” for the male Llama to mount
3. 335-360 days in llamas, 325-345 days in alpacas
4. Non-seasonal breeders in temperate climates w/good nutrition

Question 2

Describe the dentistry of camelids - which teeth are considered to be fighting teeth?

Answer 2

30-32 permanent teeth:

• Upper: 2 incisors, 2 canines, 2-4 premolars, 3 molars
• Lower: 6 incisors, 2 canines, 2-4 premolars, 3 molars

Fighting teeth:

• Upper incisors and canines and lower canines - considered to be fighting teeth

Question 3

What are the causes of Berserk Male syndrome in Llamas?

Answer 3

• Poor human interaction
• Lack of training
• Inappropriate socialisation

Question 4

For choanal atresia in Alpacas:

1. Describe the pathogenesis
2. What is the main clinical sign that is seen?

Answer 4

1. Opening between the nasal and pharyngeal is blocked by bony or membranous tissue
2. Difficulty nursing and breathing results

Question 5

A cria is born with a rostral muzzle rotated laterally 90 degrees or more. What is the name of this condition?

Answer 5

Wry Face

Question 6

For Meningeal Worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis):

1. Describe the lifecycle of worms
2. What are the clinical signs that are seen
3. How can a diagnosis be made?
4. What is the treatment/prevention?

Answer 6

1. White tail deer in brain → faeces → snail/slug → brain and spinal cord
2. Hind end paresis → extends to front end
3. Eosinophilia on CSF tap
4. Fenbendazole/ivermectin

Question 7

What time in gestation produces persistently infected animals from BVDV in camelids?

Answer 7

• 60-100 days of gestation will produce PI cria

Question 8

For Vitamin D deficiency:

1. What are three risk factors that may be seen?
2. What are the main clinical signs?
3. How can a diagnosis be made?

Answer 8

1. Winter and early spring, Camelids further away from the equator, animals with longer fleece
2. Clinical signs: in cria see angular limb deformity (Ricketts)
3. Growth plate widening + failure of ossification

Question 9

For Mycoplasma Haemolamae:

1. Describe the pathophysiology of it
2. How is it diagnosed?
3. What is the best treatment?

Answer 9

1. Blood parasite → attaches to erythrocytes and causes anaemia
2. Blood smear/PCR → diagnosis
3. Treatment is by Oxytetracycline

Question 10

What is the most common cause of anaemia in Camelids in the USA?

Answer 10

• Haemonchus contortus (Barber Pole Worm)

Question 11

For Eimeria macusaniensis:

1. Describe their size relative to normal Coccidia
2. What is the main clinicopathologic abnormality that is seen?

Answer 11

1. 3-5 times the size of normal coccidia
2. Hypoproteinaemia is often present

Question 12

For mites in Camelids:

1. What is the main type of mite seen?
2. Describe the distribution and the clinical signs that are seen

Answer 12

1. Chorioptic
2. Legs (especially hind), Axilla, Inguinal - Alopecia, severe crusting, dry skin, lichenification