Clinical, haematological and biochemical findings in Saanen goat kids with naturally occurring heat stroke.

摘要

The clinical, biochemical and haematological changes in Saanen goat kids after exposure to naturally occurring heat stroke are described. The experimental group consisted of goats of different ages (1-4 months) and sexes (8 males and 12 females) with an average weight of 7.2+or-3.1 kg. 20 clinically healthy, 3-4-month-old Saanen goat kids (sex ratio 1:1) were used as controls. The average body weight in this group was 9.4+or-2.6 kg. Case history, clinical signs and results of haematology and blood biochemistry were documented in all goat kids. It was shown that the most common findings were hyperthermia, ataxia, muscle tremor and depression. Increased serum urea, creatinine, potassium and plasma lactate concentrations as well as an increase in aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase activity were observed in goats after exposure to heat stroke when compared to the control group. Two kids died despite supportive treatment. Physical and biochemical blood parameters improved following treatment. This is the first study on heat stroke in Saanen goat kids. Heat stroke may be fatal in Saanen goat kids despite appropriate treatment, and may lead to secondary complications. Plasma lactate concentration seems to be a reliable indicator for the prognosis of heat stroke in goat kids.