Ventral oedema in exotic Angora goats

Abstract

Angora goats of both Texan and South African origin have recently been released from quarantine and are now present on many properties throughout New Zealand. Based on observations during the quarantine period, the health problems of these goats are similar to those experienced by Australasian Angoras, but some differences are likely to emerge. A notable example is a syndrome characterised by ventral oedema and referred to by many goat farmers as “water belly”. The oedema is often severe with massive subcutaneous swelling along the ventral abdomen and brisket, sometimes extending up the neck to the sub- mandibular region and down into the legs (Figure 1). Goat owners encountering this problem for the first time will no doubt be concerned and, because of the high value of these animals at present, are likely to seek veterinary advice. The purpose of this letter is to bring the ventral oedema syndrome to the attention of veterinary practitioners, share what little knowledge I have on its clinical characteristics and suggest a possible mechanism.