24/08/2025
Inkberry (Cestrum laevigatum) plant poisoning case 🩺💉💊🐂🐄🐂🐄
Case History:
One gloomy and drizzling day, the cattle spent most of their day in a small encroached bush in the farm, then a few days later the farmer began to experience the following.
- Sudden appearance of abdominal colic(pain) and neurological signs (Incoordination, staggering, poor balance, and a staring etc.)
- Sudden high numbers of deaths
- Sudden occurrences of abortion cases
We conducted an investigation in the whole farm and paid more attention in the area of interest (the encroached bush), most the plants were unpalatable for the cattle except for the only green plant in that bush which appeared to be mostly grazed by the cattle and that plant was Inkberry (Cestrum laevigatum) as it appears on the pictures.
Short information on the plant:
Inkberry (Cestrum laevigatum) poisoning in cattle is a serious condition caused by the consumption of its green leaves and berries, particularly in June and July due to poor pasture conditions. Symptoms include acute abdominal pain (colic), incoordination, staggering, and even sudden death. The toxins present in the plant, such as saponins and gitogenin, are highly concentrated in the young foliage and green berries. There is no specific treatment for the poisoning, so prevention by removing cattle from infested areas and seeking immediate veterinary help is crucial.
Prevention
- Remove Animals: The most important preventive measure is to immediately remove cattle from areas where inkberry is growing.
- Early Detection: Monitor pastures during the high-risk months of June and July.
- Control the Plant: Control the spread of the invasive inkberry w**d.
- Consult a Vet: Always contact a veterinarian if you suspect plant poisoning in your livestock.
