Ergotism

Two lame 10-month-old Holstein steers were brought to the ADRDL for examination. They were part of a mixed group of 40 300-500 lb. calves. The owner reported that 30 out of 40 animals were affected and that some animals had sloughed feet

Picture 1.

Picture 2.

The hind legs had a clear line of demarcation above the dewclaws (Picture 1, Picture 2). The skin below the line was cold and hard. Microscopic examination of affected skin revealed full thickness necrosis of epidermis with underlying thrombosed vessels in the dermis.

Picture 3. ergot bodies

A ration consisting of corn, oats and pellets had been fed for about a month prior to the start of the problem. The oats contained many ergot bodies. Chemical analysis of oats confirmed a very high level of ergopeptine alkaloids.