Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Zebra became unsteady and blind after ivermectin - what to do?
By Hautekeete, L A et al.·Published in Veterinary and human toxicology·1998·ASPCA/National Animal Poison Control Center, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Ivermectin toxicosis in a zebra.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 3-month-old zebra accidentally received a dose of ivermectin, a medication often used to treat parasites, that was too high for its weight. Within a few hours, the zebra showed signs of ataxia (trouble walking), blindness, and depression, which means it seemed very down and unresponsive. Fortunately, with supportive care and treatment, these symptoms improved by the fifth day after the incident. This case shows that zebras can experience similar reactions to ivermectin as horses do, including temporary blindness. Overall, the treatment was successful, and the zebra recovered.
Abstract
A 3-mo-old zebra was accidentally given 2.08 mg ivermectin/kg bw orally. Ataxia, blindness and depression developed within a few hours and resolved with symptomatic and supportive treatment by the fifth day post-exposure. These effects were similar to those reported in horses, including the temporary blindness.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9467206/