Abstract A syndrome characterised by ventral oedema and referred to by many goat farmers as "water belly". has been recognised in New Zealand in Angora goats of South African and Texan origin. It occurs most frequently in young animals in the immediate post-shearing period, when as many as 10-15% of the flock may be affected to varying degrees. Affected animals are usually bright and alert and most will recover spontaneously within 3-4 days. The syndrome may also occur in goats suffering from one of a variety of diseases but in some cases there is no apparent predisposing cause.