Lets talk about goats!

[poult]

Yes I am curious about that too our neighbors goats has that as well.

 

[H Diamond]

Question: We have a wether that is approximately 4 years old. Recently I heard what I thought was his hooves clicking together as he walked. I just assumed he needed a hoof trim. I let it go for a bit because I was going to deal with it when I could trim several goats at one time. But when I did go to do the trimming, I picked up his foot and it was his knee that was making the noise. Both of his front knees make that noise. He does not appear to be suffering from any discomfort at all. Is this early signs of arthritis or some other ligament ailment? Any thoughts on this?

Unless it gets worse or he shows signs of pain, we're going to wait until the vet comes back to the farm for the next visit and let him take a look.

I would draw blood (or have a vet do it) and send it in for CAE testing. If that comes back negative, it's probably just him. I've had a goat or two have clicky joints. I'd definitely do a CAE test though.

 

[GAMarans]

That's exactly the sound ... Clicky. No swelling no heat no limp. Nothing but the sound.

 

[H Diamond]

I would still have him tested.

 

[GAMarans]

Turns out there is something in goats and sheep that can cause this. There is no pain, swelling, etc. and there is nothing to do. Since he has no other symptoms and this is a known "condition" seems there is no need/point to testing. If anything changes we will have him tested.

 

[H Diamond]

Except if it's CAE, he can pass it to other goats.

The "scientific type" article: http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/generalized_conditions/caprine_arthritis_and_encephalitis/overview_of_caprine_arthritis_and_encephalitis.html

A little more basic article: http://www.tennesseemeatgoats.com/articles2/CAE.html

 

[GAMarans]

I just don't see how it is worth panicking over ... even if he does end up having CAE, he can't spread it (spread through ingestion of milk), he isn't going to be bred (he's a wether), and the doe that he came from is nowhere near our farm and isn't related to any of our goats. He is exhibiting no symptoms that need treatment at this time and 2 different vets have said the clicking in the knees happens in some sheep and goats with no other symptoms and no clinical diagnosis. I do appreciate the information and concern and we will absolutely be watching him for any signs that do need treatment.

Again, I most certainly do appreciate the information. It is always best to get more information than less. Thank you.

 

[poult]

Interesting information.

 

[GAMarans]

It's one of the things that I enjoy so much here ... the sharing of information, experiences, etc.

 

[H Diamond]

GAMarans, I understand, you need to do what's right for your herd. No worries.

For any others interested in CAE, it can be transmitted through body fluid. It does not have be only through milk (although this is most common). But oddly enough, it is rarely passed during breeding. It's an easy inexpensive test, and is fairly accurate. I choose to test my herd because I would rather know than wonder and possibly affect more animals with the disease. If anyone has more questions on the matter, please let me know.