Toxoplasmosis is a common intestinal, protozoal infection in cats. It can cause abortion in sheep at any stage of pregnancy, depending upon the stage during which the ewe was infected. It is generally accepted that ewes become infected when they ingest feed or water which has been contaminated with infected cat feces. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine available in the U.S. to prevent toxoplasmosis. In order to develop a course of action and prevent abortion storms in subsequent years, the specific cause of abortion must be determined.
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and flock history, combined with laboratory diagnostics.
Tissues can be kept cold by packing in ice in a leak-proof, insulated container until they can be delivered. Controlling an abortion outbreak requires strict sanitation and separation of aborting ewes. All aborting ewes or those with vaginal discharges should be immediately isolated from the main flock. Aborted ewes should not be used as foster mothers for female offspring, unless infectious causes of abortion can be eliminated. Pregnant ewes should never be fed on the ground.