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Toxicity in goats caused by oleander (Nerium oleander)
R R Barbosa1, J D Fontenele-Neto, B Soto-Blanco
1Department of Animal Sciences, UFERSA-BR, Mossoró-RN, Brazil.
Research in Veterinary Science
|November 23, 2007
Summary
Oleander (Nerium oleander) poisoning in goats caused apathy, colic, and renal necrosis. Goats showed similar toxic responses to oleander as other species, with death occurring rapidly after high doses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Cardiovascular Pathology
- Renal Pathology
Background:
- Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a toxic plant affecting various animal species.
- Goats have historically shown resistance to oleander poisoning.
- Limited data exists on the specific pathological effects of oleander in goats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and pathological effects of Nerium oleander poisoning in goats.
- To determine if goats exhibit similar toxicological responses to oleander as other species.
Main Methods:
- Three groups of goats were used: a control group and two experimental groups receiving varying doses of oleander leaves.
- Clinical signs were monitored, and electrocardiograms were performed.
- Post-mortem microscopic evaluation of renal and cardiac tissues was conducted.
Main Results:
- Goats exhibited clinical signs including apathy, colic, hyperpnea, and moderate rumen distention.
- Electrocardiograms revealed second-degree atrioventricular block.
- Histopathology showed renal necrosis in tubules and slight myocardial degeneration.
Conclusions:
- Goats are susceptible to Nerium oleander poisoning, displaying pathological effects similar to other species.
- The study confirms oleander toxicity in goats, characterized by cardiovascular and renal damage.
- Rapid death occurred following high-dose oleander administration in goats.
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