An outbreak of poisoning by Kalanchoe blossfeldiana in cattle in northeastern Brazil

This study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological aspects of an outbreak of poisoning byKalanchoe blossfeldiana in cattle in the semiarid region of Pernambuco, Brazil. Epidemiological and clinical data were obtained from the owner and veterinarian during technical visits. Prunings of this plant were disposed of in a pasture with a shortness of forage. Seventeen cattle had clinical signs, and thirteen died 4 –5 days after the first clinical signs were observed. Clinical signs and gross and histological lesions include gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and neuromuscular disorders.Kalanchoe spp. contain cardiotoxic glycosides, and the clinical signs and lesions in cattle of this outbreak were consistent with poisoning by plants that contain these toxins.
Source: Tropical Animal Health and Production - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research