The new Cuddle with a Baby Goat exhibit at the New York State Fair was shut down on the fair's opening day Wednesday when an animal showed signs of illness during health checks made by state veterinarians, a fair spokesperson confirmed.

The goat was exhibiting signs of a viral disease that could potentially be transmitted to the other goats in the exhibit, according to the state Department of Agriculture and Markets. The exhibit has been closed and will not return for the 2024 State Fair, it said.

The baby goat exhibit in the Horticulture Building was closed out of "abundance of caution" prior to opening because a baby goat showed a "symptom of illness," the spokesperson said.

Animals showing any signs of illness are sent home from the fair.