Related Experiment Videos
Ammoniated forage toxicosis in calves
L A Kerr1, A W Groce, K W Kersting
1College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, MS 39762.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 1, 1987
Summary
Ammoniated forage can cause a central nervous system (CNS) syndrome in calves. High ammonia levels in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were observed in affected calves, which recovered after treatment.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Animal Nutrition
Background:
- Ammoniation of low-quality forage increases digestibility and nitrogen content.
- A central nervous system (CNS) syndrome has been anecdotally linked to ammoniated forage consumption in cattle.
- The exact cause of this neurological syndrome remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a central nervous system (CNS) syndrome observed in two calves nursing dams fed ammoniated forage.
- To identify potential causes and clinical characteristics of the neurological condition.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of two calves exhibiting CNS signs (hyperesthesia, tremors, incoordination).
- Analysis of serum electrolytes, glucose, and blood differentials.
- Measurement of serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) ammonia concentrations.
- Treatment with acepromazine sedation and thiamine injections.
Main Results:
- Calves displayed neurological signs consistent with a CNS syndrome.
- Routine bloodwork (electrolytes, glucose, differentials) was within normal limits.
- Elevated serum and CSF ammonia concentrations were detected in the older calf.
- Both calves showed complete clinical recovery within 12 hours post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- Ammoniated forage may be a causative agent for CNS syndrome in nursing calves.
- Elevated ammonia levels are a significant finding in affected animals.
- Prompt treatment with sedation and thiamine can lead to clinical recovery.