A Warning for Livestock Owners: Watch Out for Lupinosis After Summer Rains!
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, especially after the recent November rains. We've received several reports of lupinosis, a liver disease, affecting sheep flocks, predominantly in the southern areas where lupin crops are increasingly being grazed as standing crops.
Dr. Judy Burson, a field veterinary officer from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), emphasizes the importance of regular checks for lupinosis symptoms and swift action if the disease is suspected.
"Lupin crops and stubbles are a valuable feed source, but they require careful management," Dr. Burson warns. "The early signs of lupinosis can be quite subtle, including reduced appetite, weight loss, disorientation when driven, and individuals lagging behind the flock or staying near water sources. More severe cases exhibit disorientation, blindness, head-pressing behavior, a hunched posture, and yellowing of the eye membranes and mouth.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to remove the affected stock from the paddock immediately and seek veterinary advice for an accurate diagnosis. The sooner action is taken, the better the chances of minimizing the impact on the entire flock or herd."
Lupinosis is primarily caused by the consumption of lupin stubble containing the fungus Diaporthe toxica (formerly known as Phomopsis leptostromiformis). While modern narrow-leaf lupin varieties typically have phomopsis resistance, certain conditions can still lead to the development of the disease.
Dr. Burson advises that affected livestock will require additional care after being moved to new paddocks. "It's best to move them to a small, shaded paddock with ample water for a couple of weeks. Provide quality hay and small amounts of oats if needed, but avoid lupins, as the damaged liver cannot handle a high-protein diet. Full recovery can take up to six months."
A professional diagnosis by a veterinarian is highly recommended, as lupinosis symptoms can mimic other diseases, including exotic diseases not native to Australia. Subsidies are available under the Significant Disease Investigation Program for investigations that rule out emergency diseases, aiding in early detection.
For more information, contact your private veterinarian or a DPIRD field veterinarian. You can also visit the Lupinosis webpage for detailed information on identification and management.
Remember, early detection and prompt action are key to minimizing the impact of lupinosis on your livestock. Stay vigilant, and don't hesitate to seek expert advice!
