Equine feed contamination and toxicology.
Abstract: Feed as a cause of poisoning in horses can occur on small or large scales. It is challenging to work up cases of suspected feed contamination, but there are resources available to veterinarians and owners. Feed contamination can be chemical or biological. This article focuses on and provides examples of chemical feed contamination including misformulation, adulteration, and natural contaminants. Additionally, recommendations for feed sampling and diagnostic submission, including legal documentation, are included.
© The Author(s) 2018. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of American Society of Animal Science.
Publication Date: 2018-03-13 PubMed ID: 32704694PubMed Central: PMC7200950DOI: 10.1093/tas/txy001Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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The research article focuses on the issue of equine feed contamination and its toxicological effects. It explores different types of chemical feed contamination including misformulation, adulteration, and natural contaminants, and provides suggestions for managing such cases.
Understanding Feed Contamination
- Feed contamination in horses is a serious issue that can cause poisoning on varying scales. It can occur from multiple sources, both chemical and biological.
- The authors primarily concentrate on chemical contamination, which can take many forms such as misformulation (incorrect amounts of ingredients), adulteration (impurities added), or natural contaminants (ones that are inherently present in the feed).
- Due to the broad range of potential toxins and their varying effects on horses, identifying the cause of suspected feed contamination can be complex and challenging.
Feed Sampling and Diagnostic Submission
- The researchers elaborate on techniques for feed sampling and diagnostic submission which are crucial to identifying the source of the contamination.
- Proper sampling can help obtain a representative sample that aids in accurate diagnosis. Inadequate or improper sampling may result in a failure to pin down the cause or source of the contamination.
- The professionals are also advised on the legal procedures and documentation required in cases of contamination which not only help in managing the crisis but also in preventing such incidents in future.
Resources for Veterinary Investigation
- The research underlines that there are resources available for veterinarians and horse owners to aid them in managing such situations. These resources are designed to assist in the accurate diagnosis and effective handling of feed contamination cases.
- These tools can guide the verification and investigation of suspect feed contamination, taking some of the burden away from veterinarians and owners trying to manage these complex situations by themselves.
Cite This Article
APA
Bischoff K, Moiseff J.
(2018).
Equine feed contamination and toxicology.
Transl Anim Sci, 2(1), 111-118.
https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txy001 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Analytical Toxicology, New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Ithaca, NY.
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.
- Department of Analytical Toxicology, New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Ithaca, NY.
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