Enterotoxemia

What is it?

Enterotoxemia is a serious disease that mainly affects sheep and goats, caused by toxins produced in the intestine. It often progresses very quickly and can lead to the death of the animal within a few hours. This disease is well known to Tunisian breeders, particularly in well-fed young animals.

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Commonly observed signs

These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.

Causes and risk factors

Enterotoxemia is caused by the excessive multiplication of Clostridium-type bacteria, notably Clostridium perfringens, normally present in small quantities in the intestine. When intestinal conditions change, such as after a sudden dietary change, these bacteria multiply rapidly and release dangerous toxins. These toxins then pass into the blood and affect several organs.

Abrupt dietary changes, such as a sudden switch to a diet high in grains or young grass, greatly increase the risk. Young, healthy, well-nourished animals are often the most affected, as are poorly vaccinated herds. Stress, overgrazing and insufficient hygiene of enclosures can also promote the appearance of the disease.

Transmission

Enterotoxemia is not a contagious disease that is passed from one animal to another. The responsible bacteria is already present naturally in the animal's intestine and only becomes dangerous under certain conditions favorable to its proliferation. It is therefore an internal imbalance rather than direct transmission between animals.

Diagnosis and care

Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.

Treatment

Treatment is difficult, because the disease progresses very quickly and the toxins act before any intervention is possible. Many animals are found dead before any care can be given.

If the animal is still alive, the veterinarian may use an antitoxin serum, which neutralises the toxins present in the blood. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to limit the multiplication of the bacteria.

Supportive care is provided: intravenous fluids to rehydrate, anti-inflammatories, and medication for pain and convulsions. The diet may also be adjusted.

The veterinarian then examines the rest of the herd. They may advise reviewing the ration and vaccinating unprotected animals. Never give medication yourself.

Prevention

Vaccination

Vaccines exist against the toxins of Clostridium. They are often combined with other vaccines against related diseases, such as tetanus. They are used in sheep and goats.

Initial vaccination generally involves two injections spaced a few weeks apart. A booster is then given regularly, often every year. Pregnant females are often vaccinated before lambing or kidding, to protect the young through colostrum, the first milk.

The exact schedule depends on the product and the farm: ask your veterinarian for it.

In llamas, alpacas, vicunas and okapis, the use of vaccines is decided case by case with a veterinarian experienced with these species.

Possible complications

The toxins can affect several organs. They can cause shock, severe dehydration and death.

The brain may be affected: convulsions, coma, nerve damage. Animals that recover may keep lasting nervous damage.

The intestine may be severely damaged, with inflammation and bleeding.

Losses can be significant in an unvaccinated herd, especially among young animals.

When to see a veterinarian

References

MSD Veterinary Manual

Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 02 November 2026