Sorghum poisoning refers to a condition that affects horses and is characterized by various symptoms. The affected horses typically exhibit caudal ataxia or incoordination, urinary incontinence leading to cystitis, and alopecia on the hind legs due to urine scalding. These symptoms are believed to be caused by axonal degeneration of spinal cord neurons, leading to the loss of urinary bladder function.
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Sorghum, also known as sorghum grass or Sorghum bicolor, is a type of cereal grain commonly used in animal feed, including horse feed. However, certain varieties of sorghum can contain toxins that are harmful to horses.
Sorghum toxicity in horses is primarily associated with a specific variety of sorghum known as Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense). Johnsongrass is a noxious weed that can sometimes contaminate sorghum crops. It contains high levels of compounds called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release hydrogen cyanide when ingested by animals, including horses.
Hydrogen cyanide is a highly toxic substance that can interfere with cellular respiration, leading to neurological damage and other systemic effects. When horses consume sorghum contaminated with Johnsongrass, the cyanogenic glycosides are metabolized in their digestive system, releasing hydrogen cyanide. This can then lead to the various symptoms observed in sorghum poisoning.
Caudal ataxia or incoordination is a common manifestation of sorghum poisoning. Horses affected by this condition may have difficulty moving their hindquarters coordinately, leading to a wobbly gait and an unsteady posture. The loss of urinary bladder function results from axonal degeneration of spinal cord neurons, which impairs the nerve signals responsible for controlling bladder function.
Additionally, sorghum poisoning can lead to cystitis, which is the inflammation of the urinary bladder. Incontinence, or the inability to hold urine, can predispose both male and female horses to cystitis. The continuous leakage of urine can irritate and inflame the bladder, leading to symptoms such as frequent urination, blood in the urine, and discomfort.
In severe cases, sorghum poisoning can lead to alopecia, particularly on the hind legs of affected horses. This is caused by urine scalding, which occurs when the continuous contact of urine with the skin causes irritation, inflammation, and hair loss.
To prevent sorghum poisoning, it is important to carefully select and monitor the quality of sorghum feed for horses. Ensuring that the sorghum feed is sourced from reputable suppliers and regularly tested for toxins, particularly cyanogenic glycosides, can help minimize the risk. It is also crucial to provide horses with a balanced diet and access to clean, fresh water at all times.
In conclusion, sorghum poisoning in horses is a condition characterized by caudal ataxia or incoordination, cystitis, urinary incontinence, and alopecia on the hind legs. It occurs when horses consume sorghum contaminated with cyanogenic glycosides, leading to neurological damage and loss of urinary bladder function. Prevention through careful sourcing and monitoring of sorghum feed is essential to avoid sorghum poisoning in horses.