Urgent — contact your vet today
Soft, fluid-filled swelling under the jaw is a sign of low blood protein, most often from blood-sucking worms or liver fluke.
Possible causes
| Possible cause | Clues | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Barber pole worm | — | Urgent |
| Liver fluke | — | Urgent |
| Johne's disease | Protein loss | See vet soon |
| Abscess (if hard) | Hard lump = abscess | Urgent |
What to check first
- Feel: soft and doughy (fluid) or hard (abscess)?
- Check gums for paleness.
What you can do now
- Avoid stress.
When to call the vet
- Same day.
Normal alpaca vital signs
| Measure | Adult | Cria |
|---|---|---|
| Rectal temperature | 99.5–101.8 °F (37.5–38.8 °C) | 100–102.2 °F (37.8–39 °C) |
| Heart rate | 60–90 beats/min | 70–100 beats/min |
| Breathing rate | 10–30 breaths/min | 20–40 breaths/min |
| Gum / eyelid color | Moist and pink; pale, white, yellow, brick-red or brown is abnormal | |
| Cud chewing | Several hours per day; stopping is an early sign of illness (adults) | |
Frequently asked questions
What causes swelling under the jaw (bottle jaw) in alpacas?
Common causes include barber pole worm, liver fluke, johne's disease and abscess (if hard).
When should I call the vet?
Same day.
What should I check first?
Feel: soft and doughy (fluid) or hard (abscess)? Check gums for paleness.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.