[Botulism in a number of yearlings (author's transl)]

An outbreak of botulism in four yearlings of a single herd is reported. One animal recovered spontaneously. The other animals underwent euthanasia (animal A) or were slaughtered (animals B and C). Cl. botulinum toxin type C was detected in the sera of animals A and B as well as in the liver and abomasal contents of animal A. In addition, Cl. botulinum was isolated from the liver of animal A. The symptoms are described. Total muscular weakness, also resulting in lingual paralysis and inability to swallow, was the most important clinical feature. The mechanism of action of Cl. botulinum toxin, possible methods of treatment and aspects of meat inspection are discussed.