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Monensin toxicosis in 2 sheep flocks.
1Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1.
Summary
Sudden deaths and weakness in lambs were linked to monensin ionophore toxicosis. Histological findings confirmed muscle damage, with feed analysis revealing toxic monensin levels in affected sheep flocks.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Toxicology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Sudden death and generalized weakness with respiratory distress (dyspnea) were observed in multiple lambs across two sheep flocks.
- Clinical signs suggested a potential myopathy affecting both cardiac (myocardial) and skeletal muscles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of sudden death and clinical signs in affected lambs.
- To confirm the suspected diagnosis of myopathy and identify the causative agent.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy and histological examination of affected lambs to identify pathological changes.
- Analysis of feed samples from the affected flocks to detect potential toxins.
Main Results:
- Postmortem examinations revealed pathological changes consistent with degenerative myopathy in cardiac and skeletal muscles.
- Histological confirmation supported the diagnosis of myopathy.
- Feed analysis identified toxic concentrations of monensin, a common ionophore coccidiostat.
Conclusions:
- The diagnosed condition was ionophore toxicosis, specifically monensin poisoning.
- Monensin toxicity is a significant risk in sheep flocks and can lead to severe myodegenerative conditions and mortality.
- Strict feed management and monitoring are crucial to prevent ionophore toxicosis in livestock.