
Sheep and Goats: Treating Urinary Blockages
Urolithiasis is a common health emergency in small ruminants. This occurs when uroliths, or urinary stones, cause a blockage in the urinary tract. These blockages occur almost exclusively in males, especially castrated males. The first signs of this condition are usually lethargy and loss of appetite combined with straining. Complete blockages can be very painful and often cause animals to bleat or moan constantly. If left untreated, the bladder may rupture. It is difficult t