Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Neurological disease and lipofuscinosis in horses and sheep grazing Trachyandra divaricata (branched onion weed) in south Western Australia.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 1987
- Authors:
- Huxtable, C R et al.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
In a recent study, researchers found that sheep and horses grazing on a plant called Trachyandra divaricata, also known as branched onion weed, in southwestern Australia can develop a serious neurological condition. This condition, which includes weakness and damage to nerve cells, seems to occur over several weeks, especially when other food sources are limited during the summer. This plant has been recognized as a new toxic risk for livestock in that area, and similar cases have been reported in South Africa, where the plant naturally grows. The findings highlight the importance of being aware of this plant's potential dangers for grazing animals.
Abstract
A severe paretic syndrome accompanied by intense neuronal lipofuscinosis is described in sheep and horses exposed to Trachyandra divaricata. This is a newly recognised toxic hazard for grazing livestock in the coastal region of the south west of Western Australia. Animals appear to become affected over a period of weeks when summer conditions induce a scarcity of alternative feed. The disease is discussed in relation to its recent documentation in South Africa where the plant is indigenous.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3619788/