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Published on: June 11, 2009
Lasalocid toxicity in cattle: acute clinicopathological changes
Journal of Animal Science
|May 1, 1986
Summary
High doses of lasalocid and monensin caused toxic syndromes in cattle, leading to symptoms like dehydration and death. Blood and urine changes indicated toxicity, primarily due to dehydration rather than organ damage.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Animal Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ionophores like lasalocid and monensin are used in cattle for growth promotion.
- Understanding their toxicological profiles is crucial for safe animal husbandry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the toxicological effects of single oral doses of lasalocid and monensin in cattle.
- To determine dose-dependent toxicity and clinical signs associated with these ionophores.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six steers were divided into six groups, receiving placebo, monensin (25 mg/kg), or lasalocid (1, 10, 50, 100 mg/kg).
- Clinical signs, bloodwork, and urinalysis were monitored post-dosing.
Main Results:
- No toxic signs were observed at low doses (lasalocid 1-10 mg/kg).
- Higher doses (lasalocid 50-100 mg/kg, monensin) induced toxic signs including muscle tremors, anorexia, diarrhea, and death.
- Significant alterations in blood parameters and urine characteristics were noted, primarily indicative of dehydration.
Conclusions:
- Lasalocid and monensin exhibit dose-dependent toxicity in cattle.
- Dehydration is a major consequence of acute ionophore toxicosis in cattle.
- Careful dose management is essential to prevent adverse effects in livestock.
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