Ergotoxins (Ergot poisoning)

These toxins are produced from the fungus ergot found in wheat, oats and rye grass. They interfere with blood flow.

Symptoms

Sows, Weaners & Growers

  • Poor growth.
  • Increased respiration.
  • Depression.
  • Reduced blood supply due to blood vessel contractions. Blue skin.
  • Gangrene at extremities.
  • Tail, ear necrosis.

Piglets

  • Unlikely to be any symptoms.

Causes / Contributing factors

  • Contaminated grains.
  • Poor storage of grains.

Diagnosis

Examine feed for the presence of small black ergot bodies

 

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