Ethylene glycol toxicosis in cattle

Abstract

A 1-month-old Jersey calf died of oxalate nephropathy. The calf had access to antifreeze (ethylene glycol) 3 days prior to death. Since ethylene glycol toxicosis had not been reported in cattle, the effects or oral administration of ethylene glycol were studied in 7 calves and 3 cows. The toxic dose ranged from 2 to 10 ml of ethylene glycol per kg of body weight. Clinical signs were increased respiration, staggering gait, paraparesis, depression and later, recumbency and death. Hemoglobinuria and epistaxis were seen at doses of 10mg/kg of body weight. Azotemia, hypocalcemia and neutrophilia were constant findings whereas acidosis, plasma hyperosmolality and hemolytic anemia were seen in the animals receiving the higher doses. A diagnosis of ethylene glycol toxicosis must be based upon a history of ingestion and the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in body tissues (especially the kidney and brain).