BOVINE ARSENIC TOXICOSIS FROM INGESTION OF ASHED COPPER-CHROME-ARSENATE TREATED TIMBER

Arsenic toxicosis is reported in a variety of animal species. It occur s most commonly in cattle and ranks second only to lead as a cause of heavy metal poisoning. We describe a case of arsenic toxicosis attribu table to ingestion of ashes from burned posts treated with an arsenic- containing preservative. Burning of the posts concentrated the arsenic and rendered lethal a product normally used around livestock. Lack of normal salt supplementation to the herd was conducive to pica-like be havior and ingestion of toxic ashes. Rapid diagnosis led to removal of the arsenic source and limited losses to 4 cows.