Acorn poisoning in Cow Signs, Treatments:

Acorn poisoning in cows is a very common cattle problem, especially with farmers that are relatively new to this profession.



Acorn poisoning is essentially caused by the tannic acid presence that affects the metabolism of proteins. Many species of oak tree that are found in North America are considered to be toxic. The tannin content in acorns varies from pod to pod and one of the easiest ways to measure the tannic acid content is that the more bitter the taste, the higher its tannic acid content.



Studies have shown that the problem seems to be more common during the summer months – during which acorns are very abundant. Some of the most prominent signs of acorn poisoning include a severe initial bout of constipation that is usually followed by black, watery diarrhea. Depression and a significant loss of appetite are likely to follow, while excessive straining in order to pass feces or urinate is another likely occurrence.





Internal signs of acorn poisoning in cow include a substantial amount of abdominal pain as well as hemorrhagic colitis. The owner will also find the cow’s strength rapidly dwindle – usually resulting in death of the animal after a seven day period. In most instances of the condition, the animals will retain a normal temperature – meaning that on will not be able to diagnose the problem simply by taking the animal’s temperature. If eaten in sufficient quantities by a pregnant cow, the digested acorns can cause birth defects in the calf such as ulcerations in the mouth, oesophagus and the rest of the intestines. The most common complication of acorn poisoning is known to be kidney failure, which is also the direct reason for death in most cases. Some other general symptoms of acorn poisoning include a cessation of lactation as well as a sudden and substantial loss of weight and body fat. About 80% of all cows that show renal symptoms of the condition will die. When treating a cow for acorn poisoning, it is essential that you take the animal to your veterinarian as soon as possible to diagnose the condition early and start treatment right away. Knowing your field and the dangers present on it are vital for a farmer to guard against the likelihood of acorn poisoning. Removing the cattle from an acorn pasture in the early stages will help them recover in a few days time.