Iceberg diseases are recognised across ruminant species, and their impact on individual animal health and welfare, and their economic impact at herd or flock level should not be underestimated. This group of diseases are characterised by the variety of stages of infection present when disease is established from clinically obvious cases (the ‘tip’ of the iceberg) through differing stages of early clinical disease to those infected yet clinically healthy. This article will explore iceberg diseases that can be identified in goats whether kept for profit, hobby, or pleasure.
