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Fluoride intoxication in dairy calves
The Cornell Veterinarian
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Chronic fluoride intoxication in dairy cattle from contaminated feed caused severe dental issues and reduced milk production. Affected calves exhibited congenital fluorosis, including enamel defects and stunted growth.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Chronic fluoride intoxication in dairy cattle has been documented.
- Contaminated commercial feed was identified as the source of fluoride exposure.
- Previous findings included dental fluorosis and decreased milk yield.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the effects of chronic fluoride intoxication on dairy cattle.
- To detail the manifestations of congenital fluorosis in calves born to affected cows.
Main Methods:
- Observational study of a dairy herd with chronic fluoride intoxication.
- Clinical examination of adult cows and their calves.
- Assessment of dental abnormalities, milk yield, and calf growth and development.
Main Results:
- Adult cows displayed dental fluorosis and a significant reduction in milk production.
- Calves exhibited congenital fluorosis, characterized by enamel discoloration and hypoplasia.
- Skeletal abnormalities in calves included bone mottling, impaired cartilage differentiation, osteopenia, and bone marrow changes.
- Severely stunted growth was observed in affected calves.
Conclusions:
- Feeding fluoride-contaminated commercial feed leads to chronic intoxication in dairy cattle.
- Congenital fluorosis in calves presents with distinct dental and skeletal abnormalities and growth retardation.
- Fluoride toxicity has profound adverse effects on both adult dairy cattle productivity and offspring development.