31/07/2025
☀️ Why Alpacas Need Vitamin D: A Vital Guide for Breeders
In regions with low sunlight during winter—like parts of Victoria—alpacas are especially vulnerable to Vitamin D deficiency. For breeders, understanding and managing Vitamin D levels is essential to prevent serious health issues and maintain herd vitality.
🧬 What Does Vitamin D Do for Alpacas?
Vitamin D plays a critical role in:
• Calcium absorption and bone development
• Muscle and nerve function
• Immune system performance Without enough Vitamin D, alpacas—especially young crias—can develop rickets, experience delayed growth, and suffer from weak or deformed limbs.
🌥️ Risk Factors in Regional Australia
Areas with limited UVB sunlight in winter (like southern VIC) increase the risk of deficiency. Dark-coated animals and indoor housing also reduce UV absorption, making supplementation even more vital.
💉 Supplementing Safely
Breeders typically rely on:
• Vitamin D3 injections during the winter months
• Oral drenches for herd-wide coverage
• Combined mineral supplements that include Vitamin D alongside selenium, copper, and zinc
Consult with your livestock vet for dosage based on age, weight, and seasonal exposure. Over-supplementing can be harmful—precision matters.
📅 Timing & Monitoring
The critical window is May to September, when UV levels drop. Set reminders to supplement crias and monitor signs of deficiency like:
• Reluctance to stand
• Bowed legs
• Reduced weight gain
Regular blood testing for at-risk stock can catch problems early and improve long-term herd performance.
🛒 Trusted Products & Support
At Beaufort Animal Supplies, we stock targeted alpaca supplements and offer advice tailored to the local climate. Whether you need injectable boosters or feed additives, we’re here to help keep your herd healthy all year round.
Ready to protect your alpacas this season? Drop into Beaufort Animal Supplies or give us a call—your herd’s wellbeing starts with smart nutrition.
