Ewe with<unk>  with weight loss and hunched appearance Same ewe as above with bare patches on rear end from<unk> g<unk>  () is a fatal, degenerative disease affecting the nervous systems of sheep and goats. It is one of several transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs), and as such it is thought to be caused by a prion.<unk>  has been known since at least 1732 and does not appear to be transmissible to humans. However, new studies suggest a link between<unk>  and sporadic CJD. The name<unk>  is derived from one of the clinical signs of the condition, wherein affected animals will compulsively<unk>  off their fleeces against rocks, trees or fences. The disease apparently causes an itching sensation in the animals. Other clinical signs include excessive lip smacking, altered gaits and convulsive collapse.<unk>  is infectious and transmissible among conspecifics, so one of the most common ways to contain it (since it is incurable) is to quarantine and kill those affected. However,<unk>  tends to persist in flocks and can also arise apparently spontaneously in flocks that have not previously had cases of the disease. The mechanism of transmission between animals and other aspects of the biology of the disease are only poorly understood, and are active areas of research. Recent studies suggest prions may be spread through urine and persist in the environment for decades.
Scrapie
Cowlick
Spycatcher
Greenpilot
Straitjacket
Stretcher bearer
Gauze
Squawk 