Organophosphorous (OP) poisoning

ORGANOPHOSPHOROUS (OP) POISONING

  •  Pesticides are used on both plants and animals to control crop pests that and to control ticks on cattle.
  •  A majority of pesticides are organophosphorous (OP) compounds which are active poisons.

 

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF OP POISONING IN CATTLE & BUFFALO

  • Severe depression
  • Hypersalivation
  • Frequent urination
  • Diarrhea, colic, and dyspnoea
  • Involuntary muscle contraction and relaxation which may

be visible under the skin.

  • Nervousness, ataxia, apprehension, and seizures
  • Pupillary constriction

 

PREVENTION AND CONTROL

  • Animal should be fed adequate water before applying liquid/spray on the animal body to kill ticks.
  • The fodder sprayed with insecticides should be properly washed with water before feeding it to the animal.
  • Apply the pesticide as directed on the label at the recommended dose and time.
  • Do not treat sick, emaciated or convalescent animals, or animals under severe stress with pesticides for removing external parasites.
  • Generally, animals less than 3 months of age should not be treated for external parasites with pesticides.
  • Keep animals away from pesticide containers (new or used) or pesticide-contaminated feed.
  • Check the label for restrictions regarding application in conjunction with other pesticides or animal health products.
  • Contact a veterinarian immediately on observing the symptoms for timely treatment which could save the animal.

 

ANIMAL HEALTH GROUP, NATIONAL DAIRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD, ANAND