Dicoumarol toxicity in cattle associated with ingestion of silage containing sweet vernal grass (Anthoxanthum odoratum) |
| |
| Authors: | DJ RUNCIMAN AM LEE KFM REED JR WALSH |
| |
| Institution: | Maffra Veterinary Centre, 10 Johnson Street, Maffra, Victoria 3860;Department of Natural Resources and Environment, 78 Henna Street, Warrnambool, Victoria 3280;Agriculture Victoria, Pastoral and Veterinary Institute, Hamilton, Victoria 3300 |
| |
| Abstract: | A diagnosis of dicoumarol toxicity in a herd of Friesian cattle was made following investigation of the deaths of three mature cows and eleven yearling heifers. Affected stock had been fed wrapped, bailed silage containing approximately 90% sweet vernal grass ( Anthoxanthum odoratum ). Sweet vernal grass contains coumarin, which can be converted to dicoumarol, a vitamin K antagonist, through the action of moulds. Most deaths were preceded by lethargy, severe anaemia and subcutaneous and internal haemorrhage. Dicoumarol toxicosis was suspected based on clinical signs, necropsy findings and prolonged prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times. Dicoumarol analysis of blood from affected animals and silage confirmed the diagnosis. |
| |
| Keywords: | |
|
|
