Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Skeletal abnormalities in young horses associated with zinc toxicity and hypocuprosis.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 1984
- Authors:
- Eamens, G J et al.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Four young horses that were grazing near industrial areas started to show signs of poor growth, lameness, and bone problems, which included swelling around their long bones. These issues were linked to low copper levels in their bodies caused by too much zinc in their diet from the pasture. Additionally, high levels of iron in the grass may have made the situation worse. The treatment and management of these conditions would depend on addressing the mineral imbalances.
Abstract
Four young horses grazing pastures near industrial plants developed illthrift, lameness and skeletal abnormalities characterised by periarticular enlargement of the long bones. The clinical signs and lesions were attributed to hypocuprosis induced by an excessive intake of zinc from pasture. High pasture intakes of iron may have further compounded the problem.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6497803/