책임운영기관 농촌진흥청 국립축산과학원

Newborn animals are highly susceptible to infections due to insufficient immunity during the suckling period after colostrum intake. In goats, diarrhea is a common disease caused by diverse infectious agents during lactation. Among these, Clostridium perfringens is frequently associated with diarrhea in suckling goats. In this study, PCR tests for C. perfringens were performed on fecal samples of diarrheic young goats from six regions in Korea. Results showed positive rates of 17.5% for type A and 18.8% for type D, with a combined rate of 36.6%. Goats are commonly raised in either elevated barn or floor-type housing. The incidence of C. perfringens according to housing type was also investigated. Positive rates were 35.7% in elevated barns and 36.8% in floor housing, indicating no significant difference between the two systems. These findings suggest that C. perfringens is a major pathogen responsible for diarrhea in more than one-third of suckling goats, regardless of housing type. Therefore, strict management of pregnant goats before parturition and improved hygienic practices for newborns are required to reduce the risk of infection and ensure goat health.