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Sometimes being careful is not enough

May 18, 2016

Warning…. Nitrate Toxicity is a true emergency

In the last few days we have seen Nitrate Toxicity in cows, heifers and R1 calves on both annuals and new perennial ryegrass pastures.

Unfortunately, in all cases we have seen animals die, but thanks to fast mobilisation of our vets and technicians, we have been able to prevent many more deaths.

Signs of possible Nitrate Toxicity may include cows having trouble breathing, staggering, down cows, brown discoloured mucous membranes (check the vulva) and sudden death.

The key risk factors for Nitrate Toxicity are:

• Hungry animals moving onto a fresh break
• New grass, especially annuals
• Recent urea fertilizer use
• Overcast days
• Unseasonably warm temperatures

We can test grass to give you a level of nitrate in the pasture and its relative toxicity level.

IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR ANIMALS HAVE NITRATE POISONING, DO NOT DELAY.

CONTACT US IMMEDIATELY ON 07 888 8197.