Metastatic mineralisation caused by vitamin D intoxication in hand-raised short-beaked echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus)

Abstract

Case report: Two cases of metastatic mineralisation caused by dietary excess of vitamin D are reported in hand-raised short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) puggles at the Australian Wildlife Health Centre. Oversupplementation was attributed to excessive levels of vitamin D in Wombaroo Echidna Milk Replacer fed to the puggles. No information exists regarding the naturally occurring vitamin D levels in echidna milk, but, given the low serum levels that have been observed in free-ranging animals, it is likely to be low. Conclusion: The vitamin D concentration in Wombaroo Echidna Milk Replacer has been reduced.