Superphosphate poisoning of sheep: a study of natural outbreaks

Authors: Cordes DO, O'Hara PJ
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 30, Issue 10, pp 153-155, Oct 1982
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant, Sheep
Subject Terms: Fertiliser, Minerals/elememts, Toxicology, Pest/pesticides, Poisoning - chemical
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Superphosphate poisoning is typically a disease of pregnant and lactating ewes under nutritional stress. Poisoning has been observed only in the late winter and spring. Most episodes occurred when hungry sheep were forced to graze short pastures topdressed within one week prior to the onset of clinical signs. Fine weather which is favourable for the application of fertiliser also favours the occurrence of poisoning. Clinical signs include anorexia, thirst, diarrhoea, weakness and incoordination. Death usually occurs within 48 hours of the onset of clinical signs. In some outbreaks the presenting signs are those of hypocalcaemia but response to calcium therapy is transient. Poisoning results in a toxic tubular nephritis and uraemia. No satisfactory treatment can be suggested but poisoning can be prevented by avoiding exposure of sheep to topdressed pastures.

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