What is Polioencephalomalacia?
Polioencephalomalacia (PEM), otherwise known as cerebralcortical nectrosis is a neurological condition affecting goats. Goats suffering from PEM may display symptoms such as:
- Staggering
- Weakness
- Head Pressing
- Bending Neck Backward
- Muscle Tremors
- Blindness
- Loss of Coordination
- Seizures
What causes PEM in Goats?
PEM is most commonly caused by thiamine deficiency or a rumen imbalance attributed to a sudden diet change (suddenly switching from hay and forage to grain feed). To mitigate PEM in goats it is best practice to gradually introduce dietary changes. This will allow the rumen to adjust slowly to the new diet and reduce chances of developing PEM.
PEM may also be caused by high sulfur intake. It is important to refresh your goats water source (empty and refill) as evaporation can concentrate hard minerals and sulfur suspended in the water. Water should be refreshed periodically even if you are using an automatic top off system. Alfalfa, being a rich source of protein and vitamins can also contain high levels of sulfates.
When to Call a Veterinarian?
Polioencephalomalacia in goats can result in long term damage or death if not treated quickly. It is imperative to have your goat seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible if your goat is showing symptoms of PEM. Your vet may prescribe emergency Thiamine (Vitamin B1) injections multiple times per day as well as an electrolyte to battle dehydration and ensure the Thiamine is transported through the goats body effectively. Thiamine injections can be directly administered by the vet initially, but are in most cases sent home to be repeated on the farm for a few days until symptoms have improved.
Ways to Prevent PEM
Preventing PEM is fairly simple yet often overlooked. Keeping your goats on a consistent balanced diet is one of the best ways to avoid developing PEM. You may also purchase tested hay from a reputable source with a low sulfur content.
Goats should always have fresh water. On hot summer days or during kidding season it is beneficial to introduce periodic electrolyte enhancements to their water. Along with loose minerals, at Hillis Family Farms we use two types of electrolytes: Manna Pro Goat Electrolyte and Sullivan Supply Sunglo 4Sure Electrolyte. Electrolyte supplements promote thorough hydration for goats and provide developmental support for goat kids. While it can be used to top dress feed, at Hillis Family Farms we add it to their water trough as dehydration is the main concern in our arid Colorado climate.
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