How to Treat an Anemic Alpaca

If you own an alpaca, chances are its health is a main priority. Both animals and human beings can suffer from anemia. Anemia occurs when the red blood cell count is extremely low and results in a variety of symptoms, including weight loss, lack of energy and damage to the organs. If left untreated, anemia in alpacas can also cause death. If you own or plan on owning alpacas, it's a good idea to know how to treat anemia.

Things You'll Need

  • Red Cell
  • Iron supplement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your alpaca immediately to the veterinarian. Nothing substitutes for the care of a trained professional when it comes to the health of an animal. Your veterinarian can test your alpaca for Mycoplasma haemolamae, which is a toxin that causes anemia in alpacas. If the test is positive, your vet can administer a series of treatments to help.

    • 2

      Prevent your alpaca from becoming unnecessarily stressed. If your alpaca is prone to anemia, transferring it from location to location and stressing it can bring on anemic episodes.

    • 3

      Request a blood transfusion for your alpaca. Whether the test for Mycoplasma haemolamae comes back as positive or negative, giving your alpaca a transfusion will help boost its red blood cells and increase its immune reactions.

    • 4

      Feed your alpaca iron supplements, such as iron dextran, twice a week. The iron supplement will increase the red blood cell count in your alpaca.

    • 5

      Purchase and feed your alpaca "Red Cell." Red Cell is a supplement meant for large farm animals to help treat iron deficiencies. This product is available from farm supply stores, online and through your veterinarian.