Be vigilant about lupinosis in your livestock after summer rainfall!
If you're a livestock producer in the Wheatbelt region and have lupin stubbles, it's crucial to keep a close eye on your animals for any signs of lupinosis, a liver disease. With the recent widespread rainfall in November, this is especially important.
There have been reports of lupinosis in sheep flocks, particularly in the south, where lupin crops are increasingly being used for grazing.
Dr. Judy Burson, a field veterinary officer from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), advises producers to regularly check their sheep for any symptoms and take immediate action if lupinosis is suspected.
"Lupin crops are a great feed source, but they require careful management," Dr. Burson emphasizes.
The early signs of lupinosis can be quite subtle, including a reduced appetite, weight loss, disorientation, and lethargy when moving. You might also notice individuals lagging behind the group or staying close to water sources.
In more severe cases, you may observe disorientation, blindness, head-pressing behavior, a hunched posture, and yellowing of the eye membranes and mouth.
If you spot any of these symptoms, it's crucial to act fast. Remove the affected stock from the paddock immediately and consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
"The quicker you act, the better the outcome for your flock or herd," Dr. Burson adds.
Lupinosis is primarily caused by the consumption of lupin stubble infected with the fungus Diaporthe toxica (formerly known as Phomopsis leptostromiformis). While modern narrow-leaf lupin varieties are typically resistant to phomopsis, they can still develop the disease under certain conditions.
Affected livestock will require extra care and attention. Dr. Burson recommends moving them to a smaller paddock with plenty of shade and water for a couple of weeks. Provide them with quality hay and small amounts of oats, but avoid lupins, as their damaged livers cannot handle a high-protein diet.
Recovery can take up to six months, so patience and proper management are key.
It's important to note that lupinosis symptoms can resemble other diseases, including some exotic to Australia. A professional diagnosis by a veterinarian is highly recommended.
Subsidies are available under the Significant Disease Investigation Program for investigations that rule out emergency diseases, aiding in early detection.
For more information, reach out to your private veterinarian or a DPIRD field veterinarian. You can also visit the Lupinosis webpage for detailed information on identification and management.
Stay informed and keep your livestock healthy!
