11/28/2023
While rare, this can be an issue to watch out for.
Acorn poisoning could be a problem this fall
This year it seems that oaks are producing a bumper crop of acorns compared to last year. This is good news for deer and other wildlife but may be a potential problem for cattle and horses. Acorn poisoning is a problem following an extended period of limited forage supply. Animals become hungry and wander into woods looking for something to graze and will eat the acorns. Acorns contain tannic acid and other tannins. When ingested, these tannins cause damage to kidneys as well as digestive system damage within 4 days of large consumption of acorns. Generally, the damage is directly proportional to the amount of acorns infested. Generally, acorn poisoning affects cows, large calves, and horses. However, baby calves may be affected through the milk supply. Additionally, fall calving cows may not produce adequate amounts of milk for nursing calves. Affected animals will first show signs of constipation and followed by dark or yellowish colored thick diarrhea sometimes with blood. If a severe case results, animals may lose condition rapidly and have a rough, “humped up” appearance with diarrhea stained on the tail and rump. In severe cases, animals may die after several days due to extensive kidney damage. Necropsy should be performed on deceased animals to rule out blackleg or other diseases from being the culprit in large calves and to rule out anaplasmosis in cows. Successful treatment after symptoms develop is rarely successful. Therefore, cattle and horses should have adequate pasture and/or hay to feel their needs. The best prevention is to prevent cattle and horses from grazing in wooded areas where there are lots of acorns.
