A poison is any solid, liquid, or gas that, when introduced into the body in small doses, can destroy life due to its inherent toxic properties—without mechanical action or temperature influence. Whether a substance is truly poisonous depends on the dose, species, and route of exposure. For example, Vitamin A is essential in small amounts but toxic in excess (e.g., polar bear liver toxicity in explorers). This in blog, we will so detailed about the various aspects of veterinary poisoning.
Classification of Poisoning
1. Malicious Poisoning
Intentional poisoning involving the illegal administration of toxic substances to animals, often via food or water.
- Insecticides: Inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE), leading to nervous system disruption.
- Warfarin: Used medically to prevent blood clots; in excess, causes internal bleeding.
2. Accidental Poisoning
Unintentional ingestion or exposure to toxic substances through contaminated feed, water, or surroundings. Divided into natural and artificial sources.
Natural Sources of Poisoning
a. Poisonous Plants
- Allium spp. (e.g., onions, garlic): Contains thiosulphate, toxic to cats and dogs.
- Tall Fescue: Contains alkaloids harmful to livestock.
b. Poisonous Animals
- Include reptiles, spiders, toads, scorpions, which produce venom as a defense.
c. Microorganisms
- Fungi: Produce mycotoxins like aflatoxin (from Aspergillus), carcinogenic in animals.
- Bacteria: Produce bacteriotoxins like Botulinum toxin, damaging tissues and suppressing immunity.
d. Toxic Minerals
- Toxic at high concentrations or inherently hazardous: lead, arsenic, asbestos, silica.
Artificial Sources of Poisoning
a. Industrial Wastes
- By-products like cyanide, lead, mercury, and benzene can cause neurological, cardiovascular, and systemic damage.
b. Agrochemicals
- Organophosphates, herbicides, arsenic, paraquat, and strychnine are common causes of animal poisoning, often linked to overuse or misuse.
c. Household Products
- Includes cleaners, pesticides, thermometer mercury, kerosene, paint thinners, and even chocolate (toxic to dogs).
d. Therapeutic Agents
- Overdose or inappropriate use of medicines like paracetamol in cats can be fatal.
e. Food & Feed
- Excessive intake of additives or nutrients, such as grain overload in ruminants, can lead to poisoning.
f. Poor Management Practices
- Example: Ammonia poisoning from poor ventilation in poultry farms, leading to Chronic Respiratory Disease.
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