The word "Braxy" is a somewhat obscure term that refers to a disease that primarily affects sheep. It's spelled B-R-A-X-Y and pronounced /ˈbræksi/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word comes from the Scottish dialect, and is believed to have originated from the Gaelic word "breac", which means "speckled". Braxy is a fatal condition that causes acute inflammation of the stomach and intestine, and can rapidly lead to death if not treated promptly. Overall, the spelling of the word Braxy is straightforward and easy to remember, making it a useful term for farmers and veterinarians alike.
Braxy is a term used to describe a serious infectious disease that affects sheep, specifically lambs, and is caused by the bacteria Clostridium septicum. This condition is characterized by necrotic inflammation of the abomasum, which is the fourth compartment of the stomach in ruminants, resulting in severe gastrointestinal symptoms and often leading to death. The name "braxy" is derived from the Scottish dialect word for a frenzy or fit of anger.
Symptoms of braxy include sudden loss of appetite, depression, abdominal pain, and bloating. Lambs affected by this disease may also have high fever, rapid breathing, and exhibit signs of discomfort. In some cases, affected lambs demonstrate neurological symptoms such as tremors and convulsions. The disease progresses rapidly, sometimes causing acute death within hours of the onset of symptoms.
Braxy is most commonly observed in sheep living in damp, cold, and poorly drained areas, as these conditions promote the growth and proliferation of Clostridium septicum. Furthermore, poor nutrition and stress factors can increase the susceptibility of lambs to the disease. This infectious condition is usually treated with antibiotics, specifically penicillin, to control the bacterial infection. Vaccination programs are also available to prevent outbreaks and reduce the occurrence of braxy among sheep populations.
In conclusion, braxy is a severe infectious disease affecting lambs caused by the bacteria Clostridium septicum. It is characterized by necrotic inflammation of the abomasum, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms and often resulting in death. Proper management practices, including vaccination and monitoring, are crucial to prevent and control this disease in sheep.
A disease among sheep-also called dysentery or gall-scour; the mutton of animals so affected.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "braxy" has its origins in the early 18th century, specifically in Scotland. It is derived from the Scots Gaelic word "bràth-sgaoileadh", which translates to "sudden separation".
Originally, "braxy" was used to refer to a sudden and fatal disease found in sheep, particularly in the Scottish Highlands. The disease was characterized by inflammation in the abomasum, which is the fourth compartment of a ruminant's stomach. The suddenness of the disease and its deadly nature led to the term "braxy".
Over time, the term "braxy" expanded to refer to a broader range of infectious diseases affecting sheep, often of a contagious and fatal nature.