My alpaca won't stand up. What are the reasons and what should I do?

Question

My alpaca will/cannot stand! Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered | 150 lbs

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

If Butter is unable to or unwilling to rise, a veterinarian needs to examine him. This is particularly important if this has been going on for more than a day. The most common causes of unwillingness to rise are traumatic injury, debilitation from an infectious disease, or a neurologic condition. One condition somewhat common to alpacas and llamas that can cause this type of clinical signs is infestation with a parasite known as Parelaphostrongylus tenuis. It affects their central nervous system and can cause inflammation serious enough to cause neurologic signs. Your veterinarian may be able to determine if this parasite is the cause of the issues with a fecal test. A thorough physical exam by a vet familiar with camelids will be the only way to begin to figure out the cause of Butter's issues. Definitely seek a vet if things are not turning around very soon. Hope this helps.

My alpaca won't stand up. What are the reasons and what should I do?

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