Pyrethroid toxicity in a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Toxicology
• Small Animal Medicine
• Exotic Animal Studies

Background:

• Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs (VPBPs) are increasingly popular as pets.
• Information on toxicological syndromes in VPBPs is limited.
• Understanding potential hazards is crucial for veterinary care.

Observation:

• A 7-month-old VPBP presented with acute onset of muscle fasciculations and seizure-like activity.
• The pig exhibited stupor, diffuse involuntary motor movement, and limb hypertonicity.
• Clinical pathology revealed hemoconcentration, severe hyperlactatemia, metabolic acidosis, and elevated muscle enzymes.

Findings:

• The pig was unresponsive to multiple anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant therapies.
• Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of bifenthrin in stomach contents.
• Bifenthrin, a pyrethroid insecticide, was identified as the likely toxic agent.

Implications:

• Pyrethroid insecticide toxicity can manifest with severe neurological signs in VPBPs.
• Clinical signs may mimic those seen in other companion animal species.
• This case underscores the importance of considering environmental toxins in differential diagnoses for neurological emergencies in pigs.