It is important that the producer recognizes the predisposing factors to pregnancy toxaemia and takes action to prevent the disease. Does with reduced appetite and mild depression with no neurological signs, may respond to the following conservative treatment regime: supplementation with propylene glycol (600 mg/ml) at a rate of 60 ml/ BID per OS for a minimum of 3 days; improved nutrition and feeding management; and treatment of any predisposing condition. More severely affected does require aggressive therapy which includes:
A single injection of glucose iv (more frequent injections have been associated with insulin suppression and rebound hypoglycaemia
Oral propylene glycol at the above dosage regime if not comatose
Oral and/or intravenous fluid therapy using balanced electrolyte solutions
Correction of ketoacidosis using bicarbonate or bicarbonate precursors.
Since hypocalcaemia is often a secondary disease associated with pregnancy toxaemia, clinical signs of hypocalcaemia should be evaluated.
Corticosteroid therapy using a single dose of dexamethasone.
Removal of the fetuses. Abortion is the preferred method as it is more affordable and less stressful to the doe. If the kids are more than 2 to 3 days premature, they will be unlikely to survive but are already at great risk of death in a severely ill doe. Consult your vet about this procedure. Before a caesarian section is performed, the doe should be stabilized using appropriate fluid therapy.
Systemic antibiotics.
Nursing care. Does need to be encouraged to eat and will need extra attention.
Correction of other diseases (e.g. if CAE arthritis, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory could be considered so the doe is willing to get up to eat)
This is a disease that needs to be prevented rather than treated. It is generally a management disease and should be initially investigated as a herd level problem rather than an individual sick goat. If one doe is clinically ill, many more in the herd are likely at risk.
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