Hypothermia and Hypoglycemia in small ruminant neonates Flashcards
What body temperature must lambs maintain at birth?
102.2-104 F.
What is the temperature range for mild-moderate hypothermia?
98.6-102.2 F.
What is the temperature range for severe hypothermia?
Less than 98.6 F.
What are the risk factors for hypothermia?
- Increased body surface area-Small lambs and those that are siblings are more at risk.
- Maternal care-How quickly does the ewe dry the lamb?
- Coat insulation-thin-coated lambs are more susceptible.
- Drafty/Cold/Rainy conditions or environment.
What are some methods for preventing hypothermia?
- Ensure colostrum intake ASAP.
- Indoor lambing.
- Observation of lambing-allows for quick transport to indoor enclosure.
- Excellent maternal nutrition-to maximize placental size.
- Short lambing season (via estrous synchronization?)-decreased labor needs.
What type of fat do lambs accumulate in-utero?
Brown fat.
How does ewe nutrition during gestation impact brown fat accumulation in lambs?
Poor ewe nutrition leads to reduced brown fat reserves in newborn lambs.
What is brown fat used for?
It is used to generate energy and maintain body temperature in newborn lambs.
What initiates the use of brown fat?
- Oxygen intake.
- Colostrum consumption.
*Weak lambs that are unable or slow to nurse may have a delayed start to brown fat metabolism.
How long do brown fat stores last once they start being metabolized?
5-12 hours.
What happens once all of the brown fat has been consumed?
The lamb must get energy and heat from milk.
What is a lamb at risk of if they do not get enough energy from milk?
- Hypoglycemia.
- Hypothermia.
What are the signs of hypothermia and -glycemia?
- Decreased to absent suckle reflex.
- Weakness.
- Seizures (lack of glucose to the brain).
- Lethargy.
What is the goal of treating hypothermia/-glycemia?
Provide warmth and nutrition.
What is the ideal amount of colostrum to tube feed initially?
50 mL/kg.