Camelidae and Cervidae Malnutrition Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Malnutrition encompasses a spectrum of nutritional disorders ranging from protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) to specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies. In camelids (llamas and alpacas) and cervids (deer, elk, moose), malnutrition represents a significant multisystemic condition with unique species-specific manifestations. Understanding these conditions is essential for the NAVLE, as they frequently appear in clinical scenarios involving exotic and wildlife species.

Camelids are particularly susceptible to hepatic lipidosis during periods of negative energy balance, while cervids commonly present with winter starvation and wasting diseases. Both species groups require careful nutritional assessment due to their unique metabolic characteristics.

Part 1: Malnutrition in Camelidae

Background and Species Considerations

South American camelids (SACs), including llamas (Lama glama) and alpacas (Vicugna pacos), originated from the high-altitude Andean regions where they evolved as efficient browsers on sparse, fibrous vegetation. These metabolic adaptations make them susceptible to specific nutritional disorders when raised outside their native environment.