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Swelling suggests injury, infection or, in crias, joint ill.
Possible causes
| Possible cause | Clues | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| Joint ill | Crias | Urgent |
| Bite wound | Check under fleece | Emergency |
| Snakebite | — | Emergency |
| Rickets | Young animals | See vet soon |
What to check first
- Feel for heat and pain; clip fleece to look for wounds.
- Take a rectal temperature (normal adult 99.5-101.8°F / 37.5-38.8°C) and count breaths per minute (normal 10-30 at rest).
What you can do now
- Keep confined on soft bedding.
When to call the vet
- Same day for crias or with fever.
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 swollen leg or joint in alpacas?
Common causes include joint ill, bite wound, snakebite and rickets.
When should I call the vet?
Same day for crias or with fever.
What should I check first?
Feel for heat and pain; clip fleece to look for wounds. Take a rectal temperature (normal adult 99.5-101.8°F / 37.5-38.8°C) and count breaths per minute (normal 10-30 at rest).
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.