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Tremorgenic syndromes in livestock
1Department of Veterinary Pharmacology, Physiology, and Toxicology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge.
Summary
Livestock can suffer from tremorgenic toxicosis due to poisonous plants and fungi in feed. Close observation and removal from pasture prevent severe outcomes, as treatments are often unavailable.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Animal Science
- Plant Science
Background:
- Grasses and certain plants are common sources of tremorgenic toxicants for livestock.
- Fungi in feedstuffs, such as wet grain byproducts, can produce toxic metabolites causing tremorgenic toxicosis.
- Poisonous plants can also pose a public health risk through milk consumption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the risks of tremorgenic toxicosis in livestock from environmental and feed-related sources.
- To inform veterinarians about endemic poisonous plants and associated risks in new practice areas.
- To emphasize management strategies for mitigating livestock poisoning.
Main Methods:
- Review of known causes of tremorgenic toxicosis in livestock.
- Identification of specific poisonous plants and fungi implicated in livestock poisoning.
- Discussion of clinical signs, management, and public health implications.
Main Results:
- High morbidity is possible from tremorgenic toxicants, but mortality can be reduced with vigilant management.
- Survivors typically recover, but chronic poisoning can lead to prolonged illness or death.
- Specific treatments are often unavailable, making prevention and early removal crucial.
Conclusions:
- Close daily observation of livestock is critical for early detection and removal from toxic exposures.
- Veterinarians must be aware of local poisonous plants and fungi to manage livestock health effectively.
- Preventative management strategies are key to minimizing the impact of tremorgenic toxicosis on animal health and agricultural economics.