Geriatric care of New World camelids

Abstract

There is an increasing interest in, and demand for, care of the geriatric veterinary patient, and New World camelids are no exception. Rather than using an absolute age to define ‘geriatric’, behavioural, physiological and clinical signs are more useful, such as ability to maintain body condition and status in herd hierarchy. This article offers guidance on approach to geriatric care in llamas and alpacas, considering husbandry, routine management and common clinical problems.

Zusammenfassung

Interesse und Nachfrage nach Alterspflege von Tierpatienten nehmen zu, und Neuweltkameliden bilden da keine Ausnahme. Eher als „geriatrisch“ entsprechend eines absoluten Alters zu definieren, sind Verhaltens-, physiologische und klinische Anzeichen hilfreicher, wie beispielsweise die Fähigkeit, die Körperkondition und den Status in der Herdenhierarchie aufrechtzuerhalten. Dieser Artikel bietet einen Leitfaden zur Betreuung alternder Lamas und Alpakas unter Berücksichtigung von Haltung, Routinemaßnahmen und häufigen klinischen Problemen.

Keywords

Llama - alpaca - ageing - husbandry - veterinary care

Schlüsselwörter

Lama - Alpaka - Geriatrie - Haltung - Altersfürsorge

Publication History

Received: 08 April 2025

Accepted: 14 July 2025

Article published online:
02 September 2025

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