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Acute aflatoxicosis in calves fed peanut hay
Australian Veterinary Journal
|June 1, 1981
Summary
Acute aflatoxicosis from contaminated peanut hay caused the deaths of Hereford calves in Queensland. The study identified high aflatoxin levels in the feed and observed severe liver damage in the affected animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Animal Pathology
- Mycotoxicology
Background:
- Drought conditions in Queensland led to the use of peanut hay as feed for Hereford calves.
- Peanut hay is a potential source of mycotoxins, including aflatoxins, which can cause significant health issues in livestock.
Observation:
- A high incidence of mortality (12-90 calves) was observed in drought-stricken Hereford calves.
- Clinical signs included jaundice, photosensitisation, diarrhoea, anorexia, and depression.
- Post-mortem examinations revealed haemorrhage, hepatocyte damage, and bile ductule proliferation.
Findings:
- Elevated serum levels of hepatic enzymes and bilirubin indicated liver damage.
- Analysis of peanut hay revealed total aflatoxin levels up to 2230 microgram/kg.
- The highest concentration of aflatoxin was found in the nut-in-shell portion of the peanut hay.
Implications:
- This highlights the critical risk of acute aflatoxicosis in cattle consuming contaminated feed during drought periods.
- Effective feed testing and management strategies are crucial to prevent livestock poisoning from mycotoxins.
- Understanding aflatoxin distribution within feed components can aid in targeted risk mitigation.