Nutritional diseases in sheep are for the most part the same as those observed in goats.
Enterotoxemia in Sheep
Enterotoxemia is a feed-related malady that causes almost sudden death in sheep due to a toxin produced byClostridium perfringens type D and sometimes type C. The organism appears to be widespread in nature, typically residing in the soil. Under conditions of high carbohydrate consumption or high intake of immature succulent forage, the causative bacteria multiply rapidly and produce an epsilon toxin that increases intestinal permeability. Thus, diets with > 20% highly fermentable carbohydrate should be fed with caution.
Protection of lambs from enterotoxemia is possible by vaccinating twice at least 10 days apart with C perfringens type D toxoid or by administering antitoxin at birth. Vaccinating breeding ewes with a booster injection 4–6 weeks before lambing is also recommended to protect the lambs until their immune system develops and they can receive their own injection. See also Enterotoxemias (Clostridium perfringens infections).
White Muscle Disease in Sheep
White muscle disease is caused by low levels of selenium and possibly vitamin E. Clinical signs include stiffness (especially in the hindquarters), tucked-up rear flanks, arched back, pneumonia, and acute death. On necropsy, white striations are found in cardiac, diaphragmatic, and skeletal muscles. AST and LDH activity is increased, indicating muscle damage. Blood concentration of selenium-containing glutathione peroxidase is decreased.
Although several feedstuffs are fairly rich in selenium and vitamin E, it may be good management practice in deficient areas to inject lambs shortly after birth with a solution of vitamin E and selenium designed for parenteral use. The use of a selenium and/or vitamin E supplemented trace mineral mixture (up to 90 ppm, as legally mandated in the US) as the only source of salt fed may be useful as a preventive measure. (See also Nutritional Myopathies in Ruminants and Pigs.)
