Monitor and manage
Fleece reflects nutrition and health over months.
Possible causes
| Possible cause | Clues | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Copper deficiency | Rusty dark fleece | Monitor |
| Parasites | — | Urgent |
| Selenium excess | Brittle fleece | Emergency |
| Lice | — | See vet soon |
| Poor nutrition / low protein | — | — |
What to check first
- Body-condition score; fecal test; review minerals.
What you can do now
- Balanced camelid mineral.
When to call the vet
- At the next routine vet visit.
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 dull, faded or brittle fleece in alpacas?
Common causes include copper deficiency, parasites, selenium excess, lice and poor nutrition / low protein.
When should I call the vet?
At the next routine vet visit.
What should I check first?
Body-condition score; fecal test; review minerals.
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.