Suspected cyanide toxicity in cattle associated with ingestion of laurel - a case report

ConclusionsThe large fatality rate serves as a timely reminder to include plant poisoning as a differential diagnosis when dealing with large numbers of rapid fatalities. Failure to thoroughly examine rumen contents and collect a detailed history in this case, could easily have allowed death to be attributed to other causes and the involvement of cyanide toxicity to be missed. In cases of individual or group fatalities, history is invaluable and recent entry to new grazing areas or any potential diet change or access to garden plants should be thoroughly investigated.
Source: Irish Veterinary Journal - Category: Veterinary Research Source Type: research