Agentes tóxicos em ruminantes diagnosticados no Serviço de Anatomia Patológica da UFRRJ, Rio de Janeiro - Brasil / Toxic agents in ruminants diagnosed in the Pathological Anatomy Service of the UFRRJ, Rio de Janeiro - Brazil

Background: Toxic agents are chemical substances or physical agents that, when interacting with living organisms, cause harmful effects. For animals, toxic products include those intended to combat endo and ectoparasites, rodenticide products, and heavy metals. Minerals and dietary additives, even if essential to the animal, can become toxic agents, among which sodium chloride, copper, urea, and ionophore antibiotics stand out. This study aimed to survey the diagnoses of accidental poisoning in ruminants over 65 years as recorded in the files of the Pathological Anatomy Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro. Materials, Methods & Results: The diagnoses of poisoning by ticks, rodenticides, heavy metals, macro and micronutrients, and dietary additives in ruminants were made based on the association of epidemiological, clinical, and anatomopathological findings and, in some cases, by histochemical (rubeanic acid and Masson trichrome) and toxicological examinations. A review of data recorded over 65 years identified 372 poisonings in ruminants. Of these, 85.5% (318/372) were in bovine species and 14.5% (54/372) in goats, sheep, and buffaloes. The outbreak of poisoning by organophosphates resulted in the death of 16 cattle that ingested contaminated broken rice and corn. The spraying of this product on the bags was intended to control insects. Intoxication due to excessive administration of abamectin resulted in the intoxication of 16 calves, in two distinct farms. Toxicosis caused by coumarin derivatives resulted in the death of six cattle after accidental ingestion of these rodenticides near the pens. Arsenic poisoning occurred due to ingestion of ant poison, available in bone meal and a mineral salt, through baths with arsenic-based ticks, or in cases later confirmed by toxicological analysis, resulting in the death of 109 cattle. Sodium chloride toxicosis resulted in the death of 10 sheep...

Poisoning by Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cv. Colonião in horses in the state of Rio de Janeiro

ABSTRACT: Colic outbreaks in horses have been associated with the grazing of several Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cultivars in the North and Central-West regions of Brazil. In this paper, we report a horse colic outbreak in the Southeast region of Brazil caused by ingestion of the Colonião cultivar of M. maximus, which has not previously been considered as toxic. The five affected horses belonged to the Veterinary Platoon based at the Central Ammunition Deposit of the Brazilian Army in the city of Paracambi, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. The horses had access to treated water and commercial concentrate, and were located in a field of M. maximus at the time of the outbreak. All horses exhibited clinical signs of colic and bloat, and three of them died. The extend of the clinical course ranged from four to five days in the three animals that died; in the two animals that recovered from the colic episodes, the extend of the clinical courses were 10 and 15 days. Necropsy findings revealed intestinal and gastric bloating and hemorrhages involving the intestinal wall. Light microscopy showed moderate diffuse lymphoplasmacytic and eosinophilic enteritis with multifocal erosions, in addition to submucosal edema associated with multifocal vasculitis. The pathogenesis of colic caused by M. maximus ingestion in horses has not yet been elucidated. Some authors have suggested that higher starch concentrations in M. maximus during the rainy season may be responsible for the toxicity of this plant. However, the findings of this study do not support this hypothesis. As a prophylactic measure, it is suggested that horses do not graze exclusively M. maximus at the beginning of rainy periods, in which regrowth of this grass occurs. In Brazil, outbreaks of horse colic associated with ingestion of varieties of Megathyrsus can also occur outside the North and Midwest regions, under specific climate conditions.

RESUMO: Surtos de cólica em equinos vêm sendo associados ao pastejo de várias cultivares de Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) nas regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Neste trabalho relata-se um surto de cólica em equinos determinado pela ingestão da variedade Colonião de M. maximus, cultivar até então não descrita como tóxico. Os cinco equinos, oriundos do Pelotão de Veterinária do Centro de munição do Exército situado no município de Paracambi/RJ, estavam em uma mesma pastagem de M. maximus, tinham acesso à água tratada e ao concentrado comercial para equinos. Todos os equinos tiveram sinais clínicos de cólica por timpanismo e três deles morreram. O curso clínico variou de quatro a cinco dias nos três equinos que morreram e de 10 a 15 dias nos dois equinos que recuperaram-se da cólica. À necropsia, os principais achados foram timpanismo intestinal e gástrico e hemorragias na parede intestinal. À microscopia havia enterite linfoplasmocítica e eosinofílica difusa moderada com erosões multifocais e edema submucoso associado à vasculite multifocal. A patogênese da cólica pela ingestão de M. maximus ainda não foi elucidada, no entanto, alguns autores têm sugerido que uma maior concentração de amido presente na forrageira durante o período de chuvas possa ser responsável pela ação tóxica da planta. Contudo as observações aqui levantadas não dão suporte a essa hipótese. Sugere-se como medida profilática evitar o pastejo exclusivo de M. maximus por cavalos, por meio de pastagens alternativas, principalmente durante o início das chuvas e rebrota da pastagem. Demonstra-se que, no Brasil, os surtos de cólica em equinos associados à ingestão de variedades de Megathyrsus, também podem ocorrer fora das regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste, desde que existam condições climáticas especiais.

Poisoning by Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cv. Colonião in horses in the state of Rio de Janeiro / Intoxicação por Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cv. Colonião em equinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro

Colic outbreaks in horses have been associated with the grazing of several Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cultivars in the North and Central-West regions of Brazil. In this paper, we report a horse colic outbreak in the Southeast region of Brazil caused by ingestion of the "Colonião" cultivar of M. maximus, which has not previously been considered as toxic. The five affected horses belonged to the Veterinary Platoon based at the Central Ammunition Deposit of the Brazilian Army in the city of Paracambi, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. The horses had access to treated water and commercial concentrate, and were located in a field of M. maximus at the time of the outbreak. All horses exhibited clinical signs of colic and bloat, and three of them died. The extend of the clinical course ranged from four to five days in the three animals that died; in the two animals that recovered from the colic episodes, the extend of the clinical courses were 10 and 15 days. Necropsy findings revealed intestinal and gastric bloating and hemorrhages involving the intestinal wall. Light microscopy showed moderate diffuse lymphoplasmacytic and eosinophilic enteritis with multifocal erosions, in addition to submucosal edema associated with multifocal vasculitis. The pathogenesis of colic caused by M. maximus ingestion in horses has not yet been elucidated. Some authors have suggested that higher starch concentrations in M. maximus during the rainy season may be responsible for the toxicity of this plant. However, the findings of this study do not support this hypothesis. As a prophylactic measure, it is suggested that horses do not graze exclusively M. maximus at the beginning of rainy periods, in which regrowth of this grass occurs. In Brazil, outbreaks of horse colic associated with ingestion of varieties of Megathyrsus can also occur outside the North and Midwest regions, under specific climate conditions.(AU)

Surtos de cólica em equinos vêm sendo associados ao pastejo de várias cultivares de Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) nas regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Neste trabalho relata-se um surto de cólica em equinos determinado pela ingestão da variedade Colonião de M. maximus, cultivar até então não descrita como tóxico. Os cinco equinos, oriundos do Pelotão de Veterinária do Centro de munição do Exército situado no município de Paracambi/RJ, estavam em uma mesma pastagem de M. maximus, tinham acesso à água tratada e ao concentrado comercial para equinos. Todos os equinos tiveram sinais clínicos de cólica por timpanismo e três deles morreram. O curso clínico variou de quatro a cinco dias nos três equinos que morreram e de 10 a 15 dias nos dois equinos que recuperaram-se da cólica. À necropsia, os principais achados foram timpanismo intestinal e gástrico e hemorragias na parede intestinal. À microscopia havia enterite linfoplasmocítica e eosinofílica difusa moderada com erosões multifocais e edema submucoso associado à vasculite multifocal. A patogênese da cólica pela ingestão de M. maximus ainda não foi elucidada, no entanto, alguns autores têm sugerido que uma maior concentração de amido presente na forrageira durante o período de chuvas possa ser responsável pela ação tóxica da planta. Contudo as observações aqui levantadas não dão suporte a essa hipótese. Sugere-se como medida profilática evitar o pastejo exclusivo de M. maximus por cavalos, por meio de pastagens alternativas, principalmente durante o início das chuvas e rebrota da pastagem. Demonstra-se que, no Brasil, os surtos de cólica em equinos associados à ingestão de variedades de Megathyrsus, também podem ocorrer fora das regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste, desde que existam condições climáticas especiais.(AU)

Intoxicação por lasalocida em bezerros búfalos no Estado do Pará, Brasil / Lasalocid poisoning in buffalo calves in the state of Pará, Brazil

Background: Ionophore antibiotics are food additives with coccidiostatic or antimicrobial action; they are also used as growth promoters, ruminal pH regulators, volatile fatty acid molar modifiers, and methanogenesis reducers. However, these compounds have the potential to cause microbial resistance, in addition to the risk of intoxication. Ionophore poisoning may be caused by excessive intake, sensitivity of certain animal species, and concomitant use with other drugs. In Brazil, cases of ionophore poisoning in buffalos are rare. This study aims to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological findings of lasalocid poisoning in buffalo calves. Case: A visit was made to a farm in the municipality of Mojú, Pará state to care for Murrah buffalo calves. After weaning, the buffalos were grazed in paddocks with Panicum spp., and received a supplement of mineral, protein, and vitamin. This supplement contained, per kg, 250 g PB, 50 g Ca, 20 g P, 8 g S, 39 g Na, 20 mg Co, 557 mg Cu, 200 mg Fe, 12.4 mg Se, 2040 mg Zn, 0.19 mg biotin, 26750 IU of vitamin A, 4175 IU of vitamin D, 155 IU of vitamin E and 300 mg/kg of lasalocid. The product was made available to all calves, at 1-2 g/kg body weight (BW), according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Older calves were raised together with those less than 30 days old; as a result, the older calves tended to eat more, which could lead to a supplementation consumption of more than 1 kg body weight per animal per day. It was reported that between 40 and 60 days after the introduction of this supplement, 16 calves fell ill and died due to apathy, motor instability, tremors, and distended neck. The herd had a mortality rate of 33.3%. Two calves underwent a necroscopic examination at the Pathology Section of the Veterinary Institute of the Federal University of Pará. Macroscopic examination revealed extensive pale areas in the skeletal muscles, myocardium, and tongue. Fragments of these muscles and various organs were collected, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, processed according to the routine histological technique, and stained with hematoxylin-eosin and Masson's trichrome stain. Microscopic examination of the histologic samples revealed foci of muscle atrophy and necrosis characterized by an increase in cytoplasmic eosinophilia associated with the loss of stretch marks, and hyperchromatic nuclei that were displaced to the periphery. The necrosis of the muscle fibers was highlighted by Masson's trichrome staining. Discussion: The diagnosis of lasalocid poisoning in buffalo calves was based on epidemiological data, clinical findings, results of macroscopic and histopathological examination, and based on the estimated ionophore intake, obtained directly from the supplement label and by the calf's handler. Based on the absence of stratification of the calves by similarity of age and because the buffalo calves older than 30 days could eat more than 1 kg of the supplement (containing 300 mg/kg of lasalocid), it was possible to estimate the intake of lasalocid per kg CP (body weight). Therefore, the intake of lasalocid by a 70-kg buffalo calf in approximately 90 days and daily supplement consumption between 1 and 1.5 kg would be between 4.2 and 6.4 mg/kg of body weight. This report reinforces that notion that buffalo calves should never ingest ionophores; however, if necessary, strict protocols must be followed to avoid poisoning in these animals. This study highlighted the fact that stratification of buffaloes by different age groups during feeding became a risk factor that allowed greater consumption by older animals; this led to the estimated consumption of 4.2-6.4 mg/kg of lasalocid.

Poisoning by Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cv. Colonião in horses in the state of Rio de Janeiro / Intoxicação por Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cv. Colonião em equinos no estado do Rio de Janeiro

Colic outbreaks in horses have been associated with the grazing of several Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) cultivars in the North and Central-West regions of Brazil. In this paper, we report a horse colic outbreak in the Southeast region of Brazil caused by ingestion of the "Colonião" cultivar of M. maximus, which has not previously been considered as toxic. The five affected horses belonged to the Veterinary Platoon based at the Central Ammunition Deposit of the Brazilian Army in the city of Paracambi, Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. The horses had access to treated water and commercial concentrate, and were located in a field of M. maximus at the time of the outbreak. All horses exhibited clinical signs of colic and bloat, and three of them died. The extend of the clinical course ranged from four to five days in the three animals that died; in the two animals that recovered from the colic episodes, the extend of the clinical courses were 10 and 15 days. Necropsy findings revealed intestinal and gastric bloating and hemorrhages involving the intestinal wall. Light microscopy showed moderate diffuse lymphoplasmacytic and eosinophilic enteritis with multifocal erosions, in addition to submucosal edema associated with multifocal vasculitis. The pathogenesis of colic caused by M. maximus ingestion in horses has not yet been elucidated. Some authors have suggested that higher starch concentrations in M. maximus during the rainy season may be responsible for the toxicity of this plant. However, the findings of this study do not support this hypothesis. As a prophylactic measure, it is suggested that horses do not graze exclusively M. maximus at the beginning of rainy periods, in which regrowth of this grass occurs. In Brazil, outbreaks of horse colic associated with ingestion of varieties of Megathyrsus can also occur outside the North and Midwest regions, under specific climate conditions.(AU)

Surtos de cólica em equinos vêm sendo associados ao pastejo de várias cultivares de Megathyrsus maximus (Sin. Panicum maximum) nas regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste do Brasil. Neste trabalho relata-se um surto de cólica em equinos determinado pela ingestão da variedade Colonião de M. maximus, cultivar até então não descrita como tóxico. Os cinco equinos, oriundos do Pelotão de Veterinária do Centro de munição do Exército situado no município de Paracambi/RJ, estavam em uma mesma pastagem de M. maximus, tinham acesso à água tratada e ao concentrado comercial para equinos. Todos os equinos tiveram sinais clínicos de cólica por timpanismo e três deles morreram. O curso clínico variou de quatro a cinco dias nos três equinos que morreram e de 10 a 15 dias nos dois equinos que recuperaram-se da cólica. À necropsia, os principais achados foram timpanismo intestinal e gástrico e hemorragias na parede intestinal. À microscopia havia enterite linfoplasmocítica e eosinofílica difusa moderada com erosões multifocais e edema submucoso associado à vasculite multifocal. A patogênese da cólica pela ingestão de M. maximus ainda não foi elucidada, no entanto, alguns autores têm sugerido que uma maior concentração de amido presente na forrageira durante o período de chuvas possa ser responsável pela ação tóxica da planta. Contudo as observações aqui levantadas não dão suporte a essa hipótese. Sugere-se como medida profilática evitar o pastejo exclusivo de M. maximus por cavalos, por meio de pastagens alternativas, principalmente durante o início das chuvas e rebrota da pastagem. Demonstra-se que, no Brasil, os surtos de cólica em equinos associados à ingestão de variedades de Megathyrsus, também podem ocorrer fora das regiões Norte e Centro-Oeste, desde que existam condições climáticas especiais.(AU)

Morphological and structural characteristics of Urochloa decumbens Stapf. deferred pasture grazed by heifers under two periods of protein-energy supplementation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and structural characteristics of deferred Urochloa decumbens Stapf. ‘Basilisk grazed by Nellore heifers under two periods of protein and energy supplementation (PES). The experiment was carried out from Jun 21 to Nov 15, 2016, under a completely randomized design and two PES periods (55 [P55] and 147 [P147] days). Forage mass (FM), leaf blade dry mass (LBDM), stem dry mass (SDM), dead material dry mass (DMDM), canopy height (CH), and forage bulk density (FBD) were evaluated. Data were analyzed by the SAS® PROC MIXED procedure and treatment means were compared with the Student's t test (p < 0.05). LBDM was higher for P147 heifers after 21, 84, and 126 days of grazing, similar to those observed after 63 days, and was higher for P55 heifers at 42, 105, and 147 days of grazing. SDM was lower for P147 heifers after 21, 42, 105, and 126 days, and similar in the other grazing periods. Protein and energy supplementation for heifers over 147 days resulted in a lower stem mass of U. decumbens Stapf. ‘Basilisk deferred pastures.(AU)

Morphological and structural characteristics of Urochloa decumbens Stapf. deferred pasture grazed by heifers under two periods of protein-energy supplementation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and structural characteristics of deferred Urochloa decumbens Stapf. ‘Basilisk’ grazed by Nellore heifers under two periods of protein and energy supplementation (PES). The experiment was carried out from Jun 21 to Nov 15, 2016, under a completely randomized design and two PES periods (55 [P55] and 147 [P147] days). Forage mass (FM), leaf blade dry mass (LBDM), stem dry mass (SDM), dead material dry mass (DMDM), canopy height (CH), and forage bulk density (FBD) were evaluated. Data were analyzed by the SAS® PROC MIXED procedure and treatment means were compared with the Student's t test (p < 0.05). LBDM was higher for P147 heifers after 21, 84, and 126 days of grazing, similar to those observed after 63 days, and was higher for P55 heifers at 42, 105, and 147 days of grazing. SDM was lower for P147 heifers after 21, 42, 105, and 126 days, and similar in the other grazing periods. Protein and energy supplementation for heifers over 147 days resulted in a lower stem mass of U. decumbens Stapf. ‘Basilisk’ deferred pastures.

Citrus pulp-based supplement reduces the detrimental effects of high grazing pressure on the performance of beef cattle under a rotational system of Urochloa brizantha / Suplemento energético a base de polpa cítrica diminui os efeitos deletérios da alta pressão de pastejo no desempenho de bovinos de corte em sistema rotacionado de Urochloa brizantha

The objectives were to evaluate the performance of bull calves under two grazing strategies and the use of energy supplementation in a rotational system of marandu palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha) and to assess the morphological and chemical composition of the grass. Eighty eight-month-old bulls of 224 ± 2.4 kg body weight (BW) were used in a completely randomized block design in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of two post-grazing heights (i.e.10 cm or 15 cm) and of a citrus pulp-based supplement (i.e. 72% total digestible nutrients) fed daily at 0 or 6 g/kg BW. Initial grazing height was set at 25 cm with variable grazing intervals and stocking rate adjustments used to control the grazing heights. Statistical analyses were performed using the SAS Mixed procedure. Significance was set at 0.05. Forage data from 12 pre-determined paddocks showed no differences in forage mass (FM) and morphological composition at pre-grazing, but greater post-grazing FM and shorter grazing interval in pastures managed at 15 cm. Higher grazing pressure resulted in lowest BW gains for non-supplemented bulls in the 10 cm treatment. The use of an energy supplement and 15 cm postgrazing height resulted in the greatest BW gains; however, combination of10 cm post-grazing height and energy supplementation allowed greater stocking rates. Under high grazing pressure, supplementary feed overcame the normal limitations, and high gains were achieved.(AU)

Os objetivos foram avaliar o desempenho de tourinhos em duas estratégias de pastejo e a suplementação energética em um sistema de lotação rotacionadade capim marandu (Urochloa brizantha) e avaliar a composição morfológica e bromatológica da gramínea. Oitenta bezerros não castrados com 8 meses de idade [224 ± 2,4 kg peso vivo (PV)] distribuídos em blocos casualizados com arranjo fatorial 2×2 entre altura de saída (i.e. 10 cm ou 15 cm) e suplemento (i.e. 72% nutrientes digestíveis totais) fornecido diariamente à0 ou 6 g/kg PV. Análises estatísticas foram feitas com o procedimento Mixed do SAS, adotando-se nível de significância à 0,05. A altura de entrada nos pastos foi de 25 cm. O intervalo entre pastejos foi variável com taxa de lotação ajustada de acordo com as premissas de pastejo. A massa de forragem (MF) pré- e pós-pastejo, taxa de crescimento da MF e o acúmulo de MF foram mensuradas em 12 piquetes pré-determinados. A MF no pré-pastejo foi semelhante, porém maior MF e menor intervalo entre pastejos foram observados nos pastos com altura de saída de 15 cm. A composição morfológica entre os dois manejos foi semelhante na entrada, porém a proporção de folhas foi maior no 15cm. A suplementação combinada a altura de saída de 15 cm gerou os maiores ganhos. Porém, a suplementação associada a altura de saída de 10 cm permitiu maior taxa de lotação, não afetando produtividade. Os efeitos deletérios da pressão de pastejo sobre o desempenho animal foram reduzidos quando a suplementação foi utilizada.(AU)

Citrus pulp-based supplement reduces the detrimental effects of high grazing pressure on the performance of beef cattle under a rotational system of Urochloa brizantha / Suplemento energético a base de polpa cítrica diminui os efeitos deletérios da alta pressão de pastejo no desempenho de bovinos de corte em sistema rotacionado de Urochloa brizantha

The objectives were to evaluate the performance of bull calves under two grazing strategies and the use of energy supplementation in a rotational system of marandu palisade grass (Urochloa brizantha) and to assess the morphological and chemical composition of the grass. Eighty eight-month-old bulls of 224 ± 2.4 kg body weight (BW) were used in a completely randomized block design in a 2×2 factorial arrangement of two post-grazing heights (i.e.10 cm or 15 cm) and of a citrus pulp-based supplement (i.e. 72% total digestible nutrients) fed daily at 0 or 6 g/kg BW. Initial grazing height was set at 25 cm with variable grazing intervals and stocking rate adjustments used to control the grazing heights. Statistical analyses were performed using the SAS Mixed procedure. Significance was set at 0.05. Forage data from 12 pre-determined paddocks showed no differences in forage mass (FM) and morphological composition at pre-grazing, but greater post-grazing FM and shorter grazing interval in pastures managed at 15 cm. Higher grazing pressure resulted in lowest BW gains for non-supplemented bulls in the 10 cm treatment. The use of an energy supplement and 15 cm postgrazing height resulted in the greatest BW gains; however, combination of10 cm post-grazing height and energy supplementation allowed greater stocking rates. Under high grazing pressure, supplementary feed overcame the normal limitations, and high gains were achieved.

Os objetivos foram avaliar o desempenho de tourinhos em duas estratégias de pastejo e a suplementação energética em um sistema de lotação rotacionadade capim marandu (Urochloa brizantha) e avaliar a composição morfológica e bromatológica da gramínea. Oitenta bezerros não castrados com 8 meses de idade [224 ± 2,4 kg peso vivo (PV)] distribuídos em blocos casualizados com arranjo fatorial 2×2 entre altura de saída (i.e. 10 cm ou 15 cm) e suplemento (i.e. 72% nutrientes digestíveis totais) fornecido diariamente à0 ou 6 g/kg PV. Análises estatísticas foram feitas com o procedimento Mixed do SAS, adotando-se nível de significância à 0,05. A altura de entrada nos pastos foi de 25 cm. O intervalo entre pastejos foi variável com taxa de lotação ajustada de acordo com as premissas de pastejo. A massa de forragem (MF) pré- e pós-pastejo, taxa de crescimento da MF e o acúmulo de MF foram mensuradas em 12 piquetes pré-determinados. A MF no pré-pastejo foi semelhante, porém maior MF e menor intervalo entre pastejos foram observados nos pastos com altura de saída de 15 cm. A composição morfológica entre os dois manejos foi semelhante na entrada, porém a proporção de folhas foi maior no 15cm. A suplementação combinada a altura de saída de 15 cm gerou os maiores ganhos. Porém, a suplementação associada a altura de saída de 10 cm permitiu maior taxa de lotação, não afetando produtividade. Os efeitos deletérios da pressão de pastejo sobre o desempenho animal foram reduzidos quando a suplementação foi utilizada.

Emphysematous and granulomatous submucosal rumenitis in a feedlot Nellore stee

Background: Emphysematous rumenitis is a condition characterized by gas filled bubbles or cysts in the ruminal mucosa. Although a similar pathology is reported from swine and humans, the incidence of this disease in cattle seems to be scarce. The etiology of emphysematous rumenitis is uncertain once many factors can be involved in its pathogeny, a single cause is difficult to ascertain. This lesion usually fails to display specific clinical signs; however, some degree of malabsorption and weight loss is expected. We described a case of emphysematous granulomatous submucosal rumenitis in a 2.5-yearold feedlot Nellore steer that presented reduction on daily weight gain.Case: Rumen fragments of a 2.5-year-old Nellore steer were submitted for histopathological evaluation at the Sector of Pathological Anatomy (SAP) of the Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The specimens were part of an experimental trial to evaluate the effect of phosphorus (P) supplementation on nutrient intake, performance and P balance in fifty feedlot Nellore steers. Following a short adaptation period, in which behavioral observations were made twice daily to assess possible adverse factors, all steers were fed with balanced diet for one hundred and sixteen days. The steers were then slaughtered in order to evaluate macroscopic changes in the gastrointestinal system. Rumen and abomasum of each steer was emptied, washed with tap water and grossly examined. One steer presented ruminal lesion, while the other forty-nine did not show any ruminal injury. Throughout the experiment the affected steer showed reduction of daily weight gain; but during clinical examination no additional clinical sign was seen. At gross inspection, a reduction in the amount of muscular and adipose tissue was seen. Multiple coalescent bullous elevated structures measuring three to ten mm diameter were covering about 40% of the ruminal surface.[...]

Emphysematous and granulomatous submucosal rumenitis in a feedlot Nellore stee

Background: Emphysematous rumenitis is a condition characterized by gas filled bubbles or cysts in the ruminal mucosa. Although a similar pathology is reported from swine and humans, the incidence of this disease in cattle seems to be scarce. The etiology of emphysematous rumenitis is uncertain once many factors can be involved in its pathogeny, a single cause is difficult to ascertain. This lesion usually fails to display specific clinical signs; however, some degree of malabsorption and weight loss is expected. We described a case of emphysematous granulomatous submucosal rumenitis in a 2.5-yearold feedlot Nellore steer that presented reduction on daily weight gain.Case: Rumen fragments of a 2.5-year-old Nellore steer were submitted for histopathological evaluation at the Sector of Pathological Anatomy (SAP) of the Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The specimens were part of an experimental trial to evaluate the effect of phosphorus (P) supplementation on nutrient intake, performance and P balance in fifty feedlot Nellore steers. Following a short adaptation period, in which behavioral observations were made twice daily to assess possible adverse factors, all steers were fed with balanced diet for one hundred and sixteen days. The steers were then slaughtered in order to evaluate macroscopic changes in the gastrointestinal system. Rumen and abomasum of each steer was emptied, washed with tap water and grossly examined. One steer presented ruminal lesion, while the other forty-nine did not show any ruminal injury. Throughout the experiment the affected steer showed reduction of daily weight gain; but during clinical examination no additional clinical sign was seen. At gross inspection, a reduction in the amount of muscular and adipose tissue was seen. Multiple coalescent bullous elevated structures measuring three to ten mm diameter were covering about 40% of the ruminal surface.[...](AU)

A simple and fast sampling method for chemical analyses and densitometry of bones through rib biopsies in cattle / Uma técnica simples e rápida de amostrar costelas para análises químicas e densitométricas por meio de biópsias em bovinos

We developed and evaluated a fast and simple method to obtain suitable bone samples for densitometry and chemical analysis through biopsies of the 12th rib of cattle. The postoperative recovery, dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily weight gain (ADG) was evaluated in 36 Nellore steers, nine of which were randomly selected for the control group and 27 others were rib biopsied. Every 30 days, rib biopsy was performed in nine steers, using a corded-electric pistol-grip drill coupled with a hole saw of a 3mm diameter pilot drill bit. This rib biopsy technique provided a suitable sample obtained in a fast way and allowed the surgeon to work alone with the animal slightly sedated and restrained in the crush. Dry matter intake (DMI) was not affected in biopsied animals. At the end of the experimental period (116 days) the average daily weight gain (ADG) was similar in the steers biopsied or not. The described method provided rib samples from cattle suitable for densitometry and chemical analysis of bone tissue without effects on health and performance. This information could greatly increase the accuracy for the diagnosis of phosphorus deficiency in cattle raised on pasture and allow the evaluation of bone metabolism in experimental animals.(AU)

No presente estudo foi desenvolvida uma técnica para se obter, de forma rápida e simples, amostras da 12a costela bovina por meio de biópsias. Avaliou-se a recuperação pós-operatória (durante 15 dias), o consumo de matéria seca (CMS) e o ganho de peso diário (GMD) de 36 novilhos Nelores, sendo nove animais controles e 27 submetidos à biópsia. A cada 30 dias biópsias de costelas foram realizadas em nove animais, usando uma furadeira elétrica acoplada a uma serra-copo com uma broca-guia de 3mm de diâmetro. Esta técnica de biópsia permitiu obter amostras ósseas de forma rápida, com o cirurgião operando sozinho e com os animais levemente sedados e em estação. Ao término do experimento (116 dias) o CMS e o GMD não foram afetados pelo procedimento cirúrgico. As amostras obtidas foram adequadas para exames radiográficos e subsequentes análises químicas. O conjunto de informações adquiridas com a técnica de biópsia de costelas permite aumentar a exatidão no diagnóstico da deficiência de fósforo em bovinos criados em pastagens e também realizar estudos sobre metabolismo ósseo em animais experimentais.(AU)

A simple and fast sampling method for chemical analyses and densitometry of bones through rib biopsies in cattle / Uma técnica simples e rápida de amostrar costelas para análises químicas e densitométricas por meio de biópsias em bovinos

We developed and evaluated a fast and simple method to obtain suitable bone samples for densitometry and chemical analysis through biopsies of the 12th rib of cattle. The postoperative recovery, dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily weight gain (ADG) was evaluated in 36 Nellore steers, nine of which were randomly selected for the control group and 27 others were rib biopsied. Every 30 days, rib biopsy was performed in nine steers, using a corded-electric pistol-grip drill coupled with a hole saw of a 3mm diameter pilot drill bit. This rib biopsy technique provided a suitable sample obtained in a fast way and allowed the surgeon to work alone with the animal slightly sedated and restrained in the crush. Dry matter intake (DMI) was not affected in biopsied animals. At the end of the experimental period (116 days) the average daily weight gain (ADG) was similar in the steers biopsied or not. The described method provided rib samples from cattle suitable for densitometry and chemical analysis of bone tissue without effects on health and performance. This information could greatly increase the accuracy for the diagnosis of phosphorus deficiency in cattle raised on pasture and allow the evaluation of bone metabolism in experimental animals.(AU)

No presente estudo foi desenvolvida uma técnica para se obter, de forma rápida e simples, amostras da 12a costela bovina por meio de biópsias. Avaliou-se a recuperação pós-operatória (durante 15 dias), o consumo de matéria seca (CMS) e o ganho de peso diário (GMD) de 36 novilhos Nelores, sendo nove animais controles e 27 submetidos à biópsia. A cada 30 dias biópsias de costelas foram realizadas em nove animais, usando uma furadeira elétrica acoplada a uma serra-copo com uma broca-guia de 3mm de diâmetro. Esta técnica de biópsia permitiu obter amostras ósseas de forma rápida, com o cirurgião operando sozinho e com os animais levemente sedados e em estação. Ao término do experimento (116 dias) o CMS e o GMD não foram afetados pelo procedimento cirúrgico. As amostras obtidas foram adequadas para exames radiográficos e subsequentes análises químicas. O conjunto de informações adquiridas com a técnica de biópsia de costelas permite aumentar a exatidão no diagnóstico da deficiência de fósforo em bovinos criados em pastagens e também realizar estudos sobre metabolismo ósseo em animais experimentais.(AU)

A simple and fast sampling method for chemical analyses and densitometry of bones through rib biopsies in cattle

ABSTRACT: We developed and evaluated a fast and simple method to obtain suitable bone samples for densitometry and chemical analysis through biopsies of the 12th rib of cattle. The postoperative recovery, dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily weight gain (ADG) was evaluated in 36 Nellore steers, nine of which were randomly selected for the control group and 27 others were rib biopsied. Every 30 days, rib biopsy was performed in nine steers, using a corded-electric pistol-grip drill coupled with a hole saw of a 3mm diameter pilot drill bit. This rib biopsy technique provided a suitable sample obtained in a fast way and allowed the surgeon to work alone with the animal slightly sedated and restrained in the crush. Dry matter intake (DMI) was not affected in biopsied animals. At the end of the experimental period (116 days) the average daily weight gain (ADG) was similar in the steers biopsied or not. The described method provided rib samples from cattle suitable for densitometry and chemical analysis of bone tissue without effects on health and performance. This information could greatly increase the accuracy for the diagnosis of phosphorus deficiency in cattle raised on pasture and allow the evaluation of bone metabolism in experimental animals.

RESUMO: No presente estudo foi desenvolvida uma técnica para se obter, de forma rápida e simples, amostras da 12a costela bovina por meio de biópsias. Avaliou-se a recuperação pós-operatória (durante 15 dias), o consumo de matéria seca (CMS) e o ganho de peso diário (GMD) de 36 novilhos Nelores, sendo nove animais controles e 27 submetidos à biópsia. A cada 30 dias biópsias de costelas foram realizadas em nove animais, usando uma furadeira elétrica acoplada a uma serra-copo com uma broca-guia de 3mm de diâmetro. Esta técnica de biópsia permitiu obter amostras ósseas de forma rápida, com o cirurgião operando sozinho e com os animais levemente sedados e em estação. Ao término do experimento (116 dias) o CMS e o GMD não foram afetados pelo procedimento cirúrgico. As amostras obtidas foram adequadas para exames radiográficos e subsequentes análises químicas. O conjunto de informações adquiridas com a técnica de biópsia de costelas permite aumentar a exatidão no diagnóstico da deficiência de fósforo em bovinos criados em pastagens e também realizar estudos sobre metabolismo ósseo em animais experimentais.

Major health problems and their economic impact on beef cattle under two different feedlot systems in Brazil / Principais problemas sanitários e seu impacto econômico em bovinos de corte criados em diferentes tipos de confinamento no Brasil

This study aimed to describe the diagnosis of health problems and to evaluate the cost of their treatment for cattle raised in feedlots to be slaughtered or to be sold as sires for cow-calf systems. Bovine respiratory disease and digestive disorders were the main problems diagnosed in the feedlot for slaughter; the cost for treatment was high, accounting for 9.7 to 20.9 kg of live weight (LW) or the equivalent of 7 to 15% of total LW gained over the days on feed. Due to the high intake of starch-rich concentrate, rumen and fecal pH was lower, whilst rumen osmolarity and blood lactate were higher in cattle fed for slaughter. Cattle affected by digestive disorders spent on average four additional days in the feedlot. Diseases and cost of treatments were associated with lower average daily gain and considerable economic losses. Health problems commonly observed in the feedlots for slaughter were not observed in the feedlots for males to be sold as sires. The most likely reason for this observation was the more careful nutrition and prophylactic health management in sire production systems, which produce animals of much higher selling price. Results from this study suggest that health problems found in feedlots for slaughter may not only reduce animal productivity and profitability, but also the welfare of the animals. The systemic understaffing of livestock cattle workers and veterinarians in large feedlots in Brazil results in under reporting of diseases and lack to understand epidemiological context and disease prevention.(AU)

No presente estudo coletou-se e se interpretou dados sobre os principais problemas sanitários, bem como a respeito dos custos com os tratamentos de bovinos de corte confinados em dois sistemas diferentes: o tradicional, isto é, aquele que objetiva produzir animais prontos para o abate e o sistema de produção de touros destinados à venda destes como reprodutores. A porcentagem de bovinos confinados para o abate e que adquiriram problemas sanitários foi consideravelmente maior do que nos sistemas que os confinam para a venda como futuros reprodutores. As pneumonias e os transtornos digestórios foram os principais problemas diagnosticados no confinamento para o abate e os custos com os tratamentos foram elevados e, em média, representaram entre 9,7 e 20,9 kg de peso vivo ou o equivalente de 7 a 15% das arrobas ganhas durante o período confinado. O crescimento exagerado e a aglutinação (paraqueratose) das papilas ruminais foram os principais achados macroscópicos nos rúmens dos bovinos confinados para o abate. Devido à maior ingestão de grãos, o pH ruminal e fecal foi sempre menor, enquanto que a osmolaridade ruminal e o lactato sanguíneo foi sempre maior nos animais confinados para o abate. O tempo de permanência no confinamento foi maior, em média 4 dias, para os animais que adquiriram qualquer problema digestório. Isso, aliado ao fato de também terem os menores ganhos de peso diários, pode resultar em um considerável prejuízo. Os ganhos de peso diários foram similares para os animais confinados (que ingeriram mais de 85% de concentrados) para o abate e para os que foram confinados para a venda como reprodutores, que consumiram cerca de 50% de concentrados em sua dieta.(AU)

Major health problems and their economic impact on beef cattle under two different feedlot systems in Brazil / Principais problemas sanitários e seu impacto econômico em bovinos de corte criados em diferentes tipos de confinamento no Brasil

This study aimed to describe the diagnosis of health problems and to evaluate the cost of their treatment for cattle raised in feedlots to be slaughtered or to be sold as sires for cow-calf systems. Bovine respiratory disease and digestive disorders were the main problems diagnosed in the feedlot for slaughter; the cost for treatment was high, accounting for 9.7 to 20.9 kg of live weight (LW) or the equivalent of 7 to 15% of total LW gained over the days on feed. Due to the high intake of starch-rich concentrate, rumen and fecal pH was lower, whilst rumen osmolarity and blood lactate were higher in cattle fed for slaughter. Cattle affected by digestive disorders spent on average four additional days in the feedlot. Diseases and cost of treatments were associated with lower average daily gain and considerable economic losses. Health problems commonly observed in the feedlots for slaughter were not observed in the feedlots for males to be sold as sires. The most likely reason for this observation was the more careful nutrition and prophylactic health management in sire production systems, which produce animals of much higher selling price. Results from this study suggest that health problems found in feedlots for slaughter may not only reduce animal productivity and protability, but also the welfare of the animals. The systemic understaffing of livestock cattle workers and veterinarians in large feedlots in Brazil results in under reporting of diseases and lack to understand epidemiological context and disease prevention.(AU)

No presente estudo coletou-se e se interpretou dados sobre os principais problemas sanitários, bem como a respeito dos custos com os tratamentos de bovinos de corte confinados em dois sistemas diferentes: o tradicional, isto é, aquele que objetiva produzir animais prontos para o abate e o sistema de produção de touros destinados à venda destes como reprodutores. A porcentagem de bovinos confinados para o abate e que adquiriram problemas sanitários foi consideravelmente maior do que nos sistemas que os confinam para a venda como futuros reprodutores. As pneumonias e os transtornos digestórios foram os principais problemas diagnosticados no confinamento para o abate e os custos com os tratamentos foram elevados e, em média, representaram entre 9,7 e 20,9 kg de peso vivo ou o equivalente de 7 a 15% das arrobas ganhas durante o período confinado. O crescimento exagerado e a aglutinação (paraqueratose) das papilas ruminais foram os principais achados macroscópicos nos rúmens dos bovinos confinados para o abate. Devido à maior ingestão de grãos, o pH ruminal e fecal foi sempre menor, enquanto que a osmolaridade ruminal e o lactato sanguíneo foi sempre maior nos animais confinados para o abate. O tempo de permanência no confinamento foi maior, em média 4 dias, para os animais que adquiriram qualquer problema digestório. Isso, aliado ao fato de também terem os menores ganhos de peso diários, pode resultar em um considerável prejuízo. Os ganhos de peso diários foram similares para os animais confinados (que ingeriram mais de 85% de concentrados) para o abate e para os que foram confinados para a venda como reprodutores, que consumiram cerca de 50% de concentrados em sua dieta.(AU)

Avaliação econômica de três tipos de suplementação mineral para bovinos de corte no Estado do Pará / Economic evaluation of three strategies of mineral supplementation for beef cattle in State of Pará, Brazil

Em uma propriedade localizada na região nordeste do Estado do Pará foram analisadas alternativas de suplementação mineral para bovinos de corte, da raça nelore, machos, com idades entre 18 e 20 meses e pesos de 299,5 a 308,5 kg. Foram avaliados o custo benefício, os valores dos minerais no fígado e nas costelas e o ganho de peso médio diário dos animais submetidos aos diferentes tratamentos. O estudo foi realizado durante seis meses (março a agosto de 2012), no período de ótima oferta de pastagem. Foram utilizados 60 bovinos, divididos em três grupos de 20 animais em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. O Grupo 1 foi suplementado com uma mistura mineral seletiva (MMS) composta por 25kg de NaCl, 50kg de fosfato bicálcico,190g de sulfato de Cobre, 60g de sulfato de Cobalto e 15g de selenito de sódio; essa mistura continha, em um quilograma, 133g de Na, 123g de P, 631 mg de Cu, 167mg de Co e 9 mg de Se; essa mistura foi proposta com base no prévio diagnóstico clínico-nutricional do rebanho. O Grupo 2 foi suplementado apenas com NaCl (Grupo controle) e o Grupo 3 recebeu uma mistura mineral comercial (MMC), rotineiramente utilizada na fazenda, contendo, em um quilograma, 130g de P, 220g de Ca, 18g de Mg, 36g de S, 6.000mg de Zn, 1.500mg de Cu, 2.000mg de Mn, 200mg de Co, 90mg de I e 36mg de Se. O melhor custo benefício foi obtido com a mistura mineral seletiva. A pastagem não contém Co suficiente para atender as necessidades dos bovinos do grupo controle, mas foi capaz de suprir as necessidades de P, Cu, Zn e Se durante os cinco meses do experimento.(AU)

Three alternatives of mineral supplementation of 18 to 20-month-old male Nelore cattle with 299.5 to 308.5 kg of body weight were used at a farm in northeast of Pará state, Brazil. To evaluate which mineral mixture resulted in better cost-benefit, three groups of 20 head were supplemented for six months, from March to August of 2012. Group 1 was supplemented with a selected mineral mixture (SMM) composed of 25kg NaCl, 50kg dicalcium phosphate, 190g copper sulphate, 60g cobalt sulphate, and 15g sodium selenite, having 133g Na, 123g P, 631mg Cu, 167mg Co, and 9mg Se per kg; this mixture was made based in previous clinical-nutritional examination of herd. Group 2 (control), supplemented only with NaCl; and group 3 received a commercial mineral mixture (CMM), routinely used in this farm, with 130g P, 220g Ca, 18g Mg, 36g S, 6000mg Zn, 1500mg Cu, 2000mg Mn, 200mg Co, 90mg I, and 36mg Se per kg. Concentrations of phosphorus, copper, zinc and iron were determined in liver and 12th ribs. The best cost-benefit alternative was the SMM; the forage alone did not contain enough Co to meet the requirements of the control group, but provided enough P, Cu, Zn and Se during the five months of the experiment.(AU)

Avaliação econômica de três tipos de suplementação mineral para bovinos de corte no Estado do Pará / Economic evaluation of three strategies of mineral supplementation for beef cattle in State of Pará, Brazil

Em uma propriedade localizada na região nordeste do Estado do Pará foram analisadas alternativas de suplementação mineral para bovinos de corte, da raça nelore, machos, com idades entre 18 e 20 meses e pesos de 299,5 a 308,5 kg. Foram avaliados o custo benefício, os valores dos minerais no fígado e nas costelas e o ganho de peso médio diário dos animais submetidos aos diferentes tratamentos. O estudo foi realizado durante seis meses (março a agosto de 2012), no período de ótima oferta de pastagem. Foram utilizados 60 bovinos, divididos em três grupos de 20 animais em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado. O Grupo 1 foi suplementado com uma mistura mineral seletiva (MMS) composta por 25kg de NaCl, 50kg de fosfato bicálcico,190g de sulfato de Cobre, 60g de sulfato de Cobalto e 15g de selenito de sódio; essa mistura continha, em um quilograma, 133g de Na, 123g de P, 631 mg de Cu, 167mg de Co e 9 mg de Se; essa mistura foi proposta com base no prévio diagnóstico clínico-nutricional do rebanho. O Grupo 2 foi suplementado apenas com NaCl (Grupo controle) e o Grupo 3 recebeu uma mistura mineral comercial (MMC), rotineiramente utilizada na fazenda, contendo, em um quilograma, 130g de P, 220g de Ca, 18g de Mg, 36g de S, 6.000mg de Zn, 1.500mg de Cu, 2.000mg de Mn, 200mg de Co, 90mg de I e 36mg de Se. O melhor custo benefício foi obtido com a mistura mineral seletiva. A pastagem não contém Co suficiente para atender as necessidades dos bovinos do grupo controle, mas foi capaz de suprir as necessidades de P, Cu, Zn e Se durante os cinco meses do experimento.(AU)

Three alternatives of mineral supplementation of 18 to 20-month-old male Nelore cattle with 299.5 to 308.5 kg of body weight were used at a farm in northeast of Pará state, Brazil. To evaluate which mineral mixture resulted in better cost-benefit, three groups of 20 head were supplemented for six months, from March to August of 2012. Group 1 was supplemented with a selected mineral mixture (SMM) composed of 25kg NaCl, 50kg dicalcium phosphate, 190g copper sulphate, 60g cobalt sulphate, and 15g sodium selenite, having 133g Na, 123g P, 631mg Cu, 167mg Co, and 9mg Se per kg; this mixture was made based in previous clinical-nutritional examination of herd. Group 2 (control), supplemented only with NaCl; and group 3 received a commercial mineral mixture (CMM), routinely used in this farm, with 130g P, 220g Ca, 18g Mg, 36g S, 6000mg Zn, 1500mg Cu, 2000mg Mn, 200mg Co, 90mg I, and 36mg Se per kg. Concentrations of phosphorus, copper, zinc and iron were determined in liver and 12th ribs. The best cost-benefit alternative was the SMM; the forage alone did not contain enough Co to meet the requirements of the control group, but provided enough P, Cu, Zn and Se during the five months of the experiment.(AU)

Estudo sobre a sensibilidade dos caprinos à toxidez de crotalárias tóxicas para bovinos visando a sua utilização na profilaxia / Study about the sensitivity of goats to the toxicity of crotalarias poisonous for cattle aiming their use for prophylactic measures

A intoxicação por plantas é sabidamente uma das principais causas de morte de bovinos adultos no Brasil. Uma vez que pouco pode ser feito no que diz respeito ao tratamento destas intoxicações, os esforços devem se concentrar na adoção de medidas profiláticas alternativas, como a utilização de uma espécie menos sensível no local de ocorrência de determinadas plantas. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho verificar a sensibilidade de caprinos às crotalárias (Crotalaria spectabilis e Crotalaria juncea) para que estes possam ser utilizados na profilaxia da intoxicação por essas plantas em bovinos. Sementes de C. spectabilis e C. juncea foram fornecidas em doses únicas ou diárias a oito caprinos adultos jovens, de ambos os sexos, divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos de quatro animais (um grupo para cada planta). Dos quatro caprinos que receberam as sementes de C. juncea, nenhum desenvolveu sinais clínicos de intoxicação ou apresentou alterações significativas no exame bioquímico. Entre os quatro caprinos que receberam sementes de C. spectabilis três morreram. Um animal recebeu uma dose única de 20g/kg de sementes da planta e desenvolveu sinais de intoxicação aguda, caracterizadas macro e microscopicamente por necrose hemorrágica centrolobular. Os outros dois caprinos desenvolveram um quadro de intoxicação crônica pela administração de doses diárias de 2g/kg de sementes da planta por 35 e 150 dias respectivamente. Um animal apresentou uma marcada pneumonia intersticial e lesões hepáticas leves, enquanto no outro caprino observaram-se apenas lesões hepáticas crônicas. Ambos os animais apresentaram alterações transitórias ao exame bioquímico. O quarto caprino recebeu a dose única de 10g/kg, sobreviveu e não apresentou alterações clínicas ou da bioquímica sanguínea significativas. Os resultados do trabalho mostraram que não se deve usar caprinos como medida profilática na intoxicação por C. spectabilis...(AU)

Plant poisoning is known to be one of the most important causes of death of adult cattle in Brazil. As there are not many possibilities for treatment, all efforts must focus on application of alternative prophylactic measures, among them the use of a less sensitive animal species in areas of the occurrence of certain plants. This study aimed to ascertain the sensibility of goats to crotalarias (Crotalaria spectabilis and Crotalaria juncea), so that this animal species could be used as a prophylactic measure against those plants poisonous for cattle. Single or daily doses of seeds of Crotalaria spectabilis and Crotalaria juncea were given to eight young adult goats of both sexes divided randomly in two groups of four goats, e.g. one group for each plant. None of the four goats that received seeds of Crotalaria junceadeveloped clinical sings of poisoning or showed changes in the biochemistry examination. Out of the four goats that received seeds of Crotalaria spectabilis, three died. One goat received a 20g/kg single dose of seeds and developed signs of acute poisoning. Postmortem and histopathological examination revealed marked centrilobular hemorrhagic necrosis. The other two goats developed chronic poisoning by the administration of 2g/kg daily doses of seeds for 35 and 150 days respectively. One goat showed severe interstitial pneumonia and mild hepatic lesions, while the other goat presented only chronic hepatic lesions. Both goats showed transient changes in the biochemistry examination. The fourth goat received a 10g/kg single dose of seeds and did not develop significant clinical or biochemical changes. The results of the present study showed that goats are not indicated to be used as a prophylactic measure against poisoning by Crotalaria spectabilis, but can be recommended as a prophylactic measure against poisoning by Crotalaria juncea.(AU)

Produção e composição do leite e escore corporal de cabras lactantes submetidas à suplementação mineral comercial e seletiva / Milk production, composition and body condition score of lactating goats receiving two types of mineral mixtures

A comparação da produção e composição do leite, do escore corporal e dos custos com a suplementação mineral comercial e seletiva foi feita utilizando-se dois grupos de 16 cabras lactantes por 164 dias. Não houve diferenças significativas na produção de leite dos animais que ingeriram os dois tipos de suplementos minerais. Não houve efeito do tipo de suplementação mineral em relação a composição do leite em gordura, proteína e lactose bem como na contagem de células somáticas (CCS). O consumo médio diário do suplemento comercial foi 1,76 vezes maior do que o suplemento contendo apenas cloreto de sódio associado ao sulfato de cobre. A utilização da mistura mineral seletiva, formulada com base no exame clínico-nutricional dos animais, gerou uma redução de aproximadamente 7 vezes o custo com a suplementação mineral do rebanho caprino.(AU)

Comparison of milk production and composition, body condition score and the cost of commercial or selective mineral supplementation was made using two groups of 16 lactating goats during 164 days. No significant difference in milk production between treatments was found. There was no effect of the type of mineral supplement on the composition of milk fat, protein and lactose as well as on the somatic cell count (SCC). The average of daily intake of the commercial supplement was 1.76 times greater than the supplement containing only sodium chloride associated with copper sulfate. The use of the selective mineral mixture based on clinical-nutritional examination of the animals led to a reduction of about 7 times the amount spent by mineral supplementation of this goat herd.(AU)