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Prussic Acid And Nitrate Poisoning Are Concerns After A Light Frost

By Glenn Selk
 
Although late October has been very warm and “summer-like”, the average first frost date for much of the Southern Plains is here.  Soon a cold front will bring near-freezing to sub-freezing nighttime temperatures
 
It was discovered in the early 1900s that under certain conditions sorghums are capable of releasing hydrocyanic acid or commonly called prussic acid.  Prussic acid when ingested by cattle, is quickly absorbed into the blood stream, and blocks the animal’s cells from utilizing oxygen.  Thus, the animal dies from asphyxiation at the cellular level.  Animals affected by prussic acid poisoning exhibit a characteristic bright red blood just prior to and during death.  Lush young regrowth of sorghum-family plants are prone to accumulate prussic acid especially when the plants are stressed such as drought or freeze damage.  Light frosts, that stress the plant but do not kill it, are often associated with prussic acid poisonings. 
 
Producers should avoid grazing fields with sorghum type plants following a light frost.  The risk of prussic acid poisoning will be reduced, if grazing is delayed until at least one week after a “killing freeze”.  As the plants die and the cell walls rupture, the hydrocyanic acid is released as a gas, and the amount is greatly reduced in the plants.  One can never be absolutely certain that a field of forage sorghum is 100% safe to graze.
 
Cattle that must be grazed on forage sorghum pastures during this time of year should be fed another type of hay before turning in on the field, and should be watched closely for the first few hours after turn in.  If signs of labored breathing, such as would be found in asphyxiation, are noted, cattle should be removed immediately.  Call your local veterinarian for immediate help for those animals that are affected.  Be certain to read KSU – PRUSSIC ACID POISONING or OSU Fact Sheet PSS-2904 “Prussic Acid Poisoning” before turning cattle to potentially dangerous fields. 
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Guardians of Swine Health - Unveiling the PRRS/PEDV Enigma with Dr. Gisele from Lanxess

Video: Guardians of Swine Health - Unveiling the PRRS/PEDV Enigma with Dr. Gisele from Lanxess

Welcome to a riveting episode of "Guardians of Swine Health," where we embark on a journey through the intricate tapestry of swine health. Joining us today is the esteemed Dr. Gisele from Lanxess, a beacon in the field of biosecurity. Together, we delve into the enigma of PRRS and PEDV, unraveling the complexities that challenge swine herds worldwide. Exploring the Viral Enigma: Dr. Gisele takes center stage, guiding us through a captivating PowerPoint presentation. She unravels the mysteries surrounding PRRS and PEDV, shedding light on the pathogens that threaten the respiratory, reproductive, and digestive systems of our beloved swine populations. Focus on Critical Gaps: Our exploration zeroes in on the critical gaps that persist during disinfection and cleaning practices. Dr. Gisele, with her wealth of expertise, navigates us through the nuances of biosecurity, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach in safeguarding swine herds. Cost Savings through Strategic Biosecurity: The presentation takes an insightful turn as Dr. Gisele unveils the economic impact of strategic biosecurity measures. She demonstrates how a robust approach not only protects swine health but also translates into substantial cost savings for farmers. It's a win-win for both the pigs and the pocketbook.

Key Points:

1. Understanding PRRS and PEDV:

o Dr. Gisele provides a comprehensive overview of the PRRS and PEDV pathogens, ensuring a deep understanding of the threats faced by swine herds.

2. Navigating Biosecurity Gaps:

o The discussion explores the critical gaps in current disinfection and cleaning practices, offering insights on how to fortify these weak points.

3. Cost-Effective Strategies:

o Dr. Gisele unveils actionable strategies that not only enhance swine health but also contribute to significant cost savings for farmers.

Conclusion: As Dr. Gisele concludes her presentation, we're left with a profound appreciation for the intricate dance between science and practicality in swine health. This episode serves as a beacon for farmers, veterinarians, and enthusiasts alike, guiding them in the relentless pursuit of safeguarding our swine herds against the enigmatic threats of PRRS and PEDV.