Botulism
Toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum cause progressive flaccid paralysis, but pigs are very resistant to the toxin.
Alternative names: Clostridium botulinum
Information
Botulism is caused by Clostridium botulinum, an organism that grows in decomposing vegetables and produces toxins which are then ingested. Botulism is rare in pigs. It can be considered food poisoning.
Symptoms
All ages
Symptoms are observed approximately 4-48 hours after ingestion of the toxin.
- Muscular paralysis.
- Weakness of limbs that can lead to complete paralysis.
- Blindness.
- Excessive salivation.
- Loss function of the urinary bladder.
- Labored breathing.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Rotting feed.
- Contaminated feed or water.
Diagnosis
- Diagnosis based on symptoms, evidence of rotting feed, and laboratory results showing the presence of toxins.
Control/Prevention
- There is no specific treatment.
- Prevent accidental feed contamination.