Urinary Problems in Goats

Urinary problems are a common medical problem for goats but develop most frequently in male goats, who have a longer urethra than females. The urethra is a small tubelike organ that removes urine from the bladder. The extra length of the male urethra gives bacteria more space to develop and spread.

  1. Urinary Calculi

    • Urinary calculi, or urinary stones, are usually caused by poor diet. According to Fias Co Farm, urinary stones are created when the goat's body is unable to properly metabolize minerals, such as calcium or magnesium. Urinary calculi is especially prominent in show goats, who are fed a high-grain diet. It is vital that urinary calculi be treated immediately by a veterinary specialist. Left untreated, the condition will worsen and eventually kill the goat.

    Urinary Tract Infections

    • Urinary tract infections occur when bacteria from a goat's bladder is transferred to the urinary tract. This occasionally occurs by a goat's natural overproduction of bacteria or may be exacerbated by diarrhea or other bowel problems. Urinary tract infections are incredibly painful and are characterized by a burning sensation during urination. The goat may also appear to be less active than usual.

    Urinary Straining

    • Urinary straining occurs in goats who are suffering from another infection or condition. Urinary straining is a symptom of both urinary calculi and a urinary tract infection. Goats suffering from straining will appear to be in pain while trying to urinate. The goat may scrunch up his face or grunt.

    Bloody Urine

    • Blood-tinged urine is an indicator of a more complex urinary problem. Bloody urine usually occurs as a result of prolonged urinary straining due to urinary stones, but it is also an indicator of a urinary tract or bladder infection. The blood may drizzle with the urine or the goat's urine may appear to be completely bloody. The goat should be treated by a veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the cause of the blood.