Urolithiasis in small ruminants

Abstract

Urolithiasis in ruminants specially in goats and sheep are reviewed briefly. Concepts are presented which can help to reduce this ever more frequent and complex pathology in ruminants. Causes - such as supplementation with high level of grain, which accounts for an unbalanced phosphorus-calcium ratio; high level of magnesium and ammonium; changes in urine pH; vitamina A deficiency; soil with high level of silica; full confinement for a long period of time; and, precocious castration - are discussed. Methods of treatment, managements and preventive medicine are also presented.