VPT 421: Veterinary Toxicology (2+0)

FACTORS AFFECTING TOXICITY

• Trivalent compounds are more toxic than pentavalent compounds.
• Pentavalent compounds are said to exhibit their toxic effects only after conversion to trivalent form.
• The other factors, which affect the toxicity of arsenic, are:
• The physical state – whether solid, coarse powder or fine powder or solution – finely divided soluble forms are more toxic.
• The condition of the digestive tract.
• Nature of ingesta.
• Method of application.
• Weak, debilitated and dehydrated animals are more susceptible.
• Poisoning is more common in bovines and felines. Poisoning is also noticed in horses and sheep. It is occasional in dogs and rare in swine and poultry.
• Herbivores are commonly poisoned as they eat contaminated forage.
• Chronic poisoning can occur due to long continued small doses.