Toxic abortions in cattle: a review

The problem of abortion is very important to the entire livestock industry particularly in cattle production because of its economic impacts and diagnostic complications. Although toxic agents are categorized as uncommon cause of abortion, a significant number of toxins can lead to embryonic loss or teratogenic defects and their presence and action should be considered during routine clinical investigations. When the clinician encountered with abortion and congenital defects, the mycotoxins, plant and plant related toxins and industrial pollutants should be considered. A complete history including the geographic region and feeding management may limit the investigation. The availability and consumption of teratogenic plants found in the region should be considered during outbreaks of congenital defects. Examination of feedstuff for mycotoxins should be done when the action of such toxins are suspected. It should be noticed that identification of the putative fungi does not warrant a definitive diagnosis for mycotoxicosis. Investigation of toxins causing abortion always should be done in the total context of the infectious and management causes and it should be diagnosed when there is a direct relationship between the toxin and the episode under investigation.