Dwarfism in Livestock

Dwarfism in Livestock

Dwarfism is characterized by short stature.  Dwarfism can be caused by any one of more than 300 conditions, most of which are genetic. 

There are two main categories of dwarfism -- disproportionate and proportionate. Disproportionate dwarfism is characterized by an average-size torso and shorter arms and legs or a shortened trunk with longer limbs.

In proportionate dwarfism, the body parts are in proportion but shortened. Dwarfism can be caused by any of more than 200 conditions.

 Causes of proportionate dwarfism include metabolic and hormonal disorders such as growth hormone deficiency. 

The most common types of dwarfism, known as skeletal dysplasia’s, are genetic. Skeletal dysplasia’s  are conditions of abnormal bone growth that cause disproportionate dwarfism.