Ketosis (also known as pregnancy toxemia) is a metabolic disorder defined by increased levels of ketone bodies (acetone, betahydroxybutyric acid, and acetoacetic acid) in blood, milk, and urine and is associated with elevated blood plasma nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), which are precursors of ketone bodies. Late pregnancy ketosis is encountered in sheep and goats carrying multiple fetuses. Goats appear to be more resistant than cows or ewes to ketosis. Check with your veterinarian for the appropriate treatment regimen. Treatment is similar to that for cows: intravenous glucose, glucocorticoid steroids, adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) injections, oral drenching with sodium propionate, propylene glycol, or chloral hydrate.

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