Influence of different systems of feeding in the appearance of cryptosporidiosis in goat kids.

This study evaluated how different systems of feeding may influence the appearance, maintenance, or both of cryptosporidial infection. Animals reared with natural lactation, a traditional artificial feeding system, and a variety of the latter were studied for oocysts in feces. The diagnosis was made by examination of fecal smears stained with auramine-O. Morbidity and mortality were high, particularly in farms with bad hygienic conditions and natural feeding systems. The traditional artificial feeding system is not enough to reduce the presence of parasites. Isolation of newborns at birth and colostrum administration with a feeding bottle, obtained in the most aseptic conditions possible, seems to be an effective prophylactic method for cryptosporidiosis control.