Star-Gazers

Polio-encephalomalacia (aka PEM, polio, star-gazers) is a Vitamin B1 responsive condition. It is possible in pasture fed livestock but is more likely in sheep and cattle fed on grain based diets, especially when this is for a prolonged period such as over summer or in a feedlot. Some individuals are more prone to the problem than others.

Affected animals develop blindness due to damage to the brain rather than the eyes. They often hold their head high (star-gaze) and ultimately go down. The condition progresses over several days and is ultimately fatal. Early treatment with injectable Vitamin B1 (thiamine) will usually result in complete recovery.

Kojonup Feeds pellets contain Vitamin B1 with the aim of preventing deficiency. Unfortunately this is not always completely effective because oral thiamine is destroyed to a variable extent by bugs in the rumen so the condition is still possible. When feed-lotting lambs and cattle it is a wise precaution to have a bottle of Vitamin B1 on hand.