Abstract
In 2003 a newborn treatment protocol consisting of paramunity inducers, vaccinations as well as
mineral and vitamin supplements was introduced at AWWP, with the aim to minimise neonatal
mortality. In this retrospective study the objective was to evaluate the efficacy of this treatment.
The survival rate and main causes of death were investigated in 5 ruminant species. Results
differed greatly between species, but in no species did survival differ significantly between
treatments. The survival rate of the Addax antelope (Addax nasomaculatus) increased by 9 %.
Deaths due to bacterial infection decreased in this species but the incidence of maternal neglect
increased. There was no significant change of survival rate of the Beisa oryx (Oryx beisa) but
deaths caused by bacterial infections were reduced whereas losses due to maternal neglects
increased. The survival rate of the Gerenuk (Litocranius walleri) increased by 4 %. Incidences of
bacterial infection remained unchanged whereas deaths caused by trauma increased and
maternal neglect appeared as a new category. The survival rate of the Nilgai (Boselaphus
tragocamelus) decreased by 7 %. Whereas bacterial infections decreased significantly, maternal
neglect as well as trauma appeared as new categories. The survival rate of the Speke’s gazelle
(Gazella spekei) increased by 4 % and bacterial infections appeared as the new main cause of
death. AWWP has a known problem with pneumonia in this species; therefore this case has to be
considered separately. Although the incidence of bacterial infection seems to be decreasing
overall, maternal neglect must be considered an emerging problem potentially triggered by the
newborn treatment.
Meier, M