VPT 421: Veterinary Toxicology (2+0)

SOURCES OF FLUORIDE POISONING
(Fluorosis)

• Toxic quantities of fluorides occur naturally in some feed products like raw rock phosphates, superphosphates produced from them, partially defluorinated phosphates and the phosphatic limestones.
• In certain areas the drinking water usually from deep wells contains high levels of fluorides.
• Factory contamination also adds to increased fluorides in water. Sodium fluoride is more toxic than calcium fluoride.

Properties of toxicological importance

• Chronic toxicity is seen in herbivores especially in dairy cows.
• Acute toxicity is rare.
• Level of fluoride, duration of exposure, solubility of the ingested fluorides, age and nutritional status of the animal alter the levels of toxicity.
• When solubility is higher, the toxicity is also higher.