A Poison Primer: Source and Symptoms

(Page 2 of 2)

August/September 1999
By the Mother Earth News editors 
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Signs may include mottling and staining of the teeth or softening of bones.

RELATED CONTENT

COPPER

Usually the result of improperly formulated mineral mixes or certain plants causing mineral imbalances.

Primarily affects sheep.

Signs are related to liver damage and include diarrhea, pain, dehydration, jaundice and blood in the urine.

CANTHARDIN

Caused by blister beetles, primarily in the southwestern U.S.

Beetles swarm in alfalfa hay during harvesting and are ingested by horses, sheep or cattle.

Signs include salivation due to oral ulcers, abdominal pain, shock and blood in the urine.

4. FARM SUPPLIES

LEAD

Very common culprit in farm animal poisonings.

Found in paint, batteries, grease and used motor oil.

Most common in cattle and dogs, but all animals may be affected.

Symptoms include dullness, lack of coordination, blindness or convulsions.

COAL TAR

Found in tar paper, creosote-treated wood, clay pigeons and tarbased flooring.

Pigs often affected after chewing treated wooden farrowing crates; cats are very sensitive as well.

Neurological signs, weakness, collapse and sudden death are often seen.

May also cause decreased growth rate in young pigs.

5. HOUSEHOLD

CHOCOLATE

The obromin in unsweetened baker's chocolate can cause severe illness; cases usually involve dogs.

Five ounces of baker's chocolate can be fatal to a 20-pound canine.

Typical signs are nervousness, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and occasionally coma.

HOUSEPLANTS

Most often involves holiday poisonings of kittens and puppies chewing on poinsettias, Easter lilies, mistletoe, philodendrons, spider plants and others.

Signs vary widely, but often include vomiting and neurological symptoms

Toxicity varies a among individual plants.

CLEANING SUPPLIES AND MEDICATIONS

Bored, young or inquisitive dogs may chew through plastic bottles and pill containers.

Most household cleaners will cause severe vomiting and diarrhea.

Tylenol, Advil, Aleve and other over-the-counter medications may be toxic and potentially fatal to cats and dogs

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