4-H Beef Series

Mastering Beef - Feed Issues - Nutritional Disorders

Introduction Many feed and feeding issues can arise in beef cattle operations resulting in losses in production and profitability. The best way to avoid these issues is to have a good understanding of them. In the 4-H Mastering Beef Project members will examine by learning, to do by doing a variety of nutritional disorders. The member guide is written with the expectation in that you, the member will have a working knowledge about feeding issues. Other resources, internet, MAFRI staff or industry may be accessed to enhance the project experience. You are not handicapped if you do not have a project animal. You may complete this project with or without a project animal. There are 7 different sections called Skill Builders where a specific topic is focused on. Each Skill Builder has activities that will help you develop your skills. Once all the Skill Builders have been completed, there is a Showcase Challenge which allows you to exhibit the skills you have gained in any way you want to. The feeding of beef cattle constitutes the greatest single cost in beef production. Therefore, it is very important to have a good understanding of the nutritional requirements of cattle, the types of feeds to meet the requirements and how to feed the different classes of beef cattle. Feed costs make up about 65 to 75% of the total cost of keeping a cow in the herd and proper nutrition directly affects the cow’s fertility; one of the biggest success factors in the cattle business. Feed costs account for 70 to 80% of the expense of feedlot finishing. Nutritional deficiencies may be the result of too little feed or rations that are too low in one or more nutrients. Deficiencies can also be worsened by toxins that may be present in the feed. For example mould growth, nitrate poisoning, prussic acid poisoning and sweet clover poisoning just to name a

few. Keeping accurate feed records will help ensure animal health and productivity.

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Project Summary 2

Skill Builder 1: Animal Records

3

Skill Builder 2: Moulds

9

Skill Builder 4: Nitrates and Nitrites

15

Skill Builder 5: Prussic Acid Poisoning

17

Skill Builder 6: Sweet Clover Poisoning

18

Skill Builder 7: Polioencephalomalacia (PEM)

20

Showcase challenge

22

Portfolio Page 23

- Draft 2010 -

Skill Builder 3: More Moulds

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Learning is 3D!

To help you get the most out of your learning, each project

meeting has the following parts: Dream it! Plan for success

Do it! Hands on learning Dig it! What did you learn?

Do It

Dig It

Dream It

Meet Bobby!

Bobby the Bale is ready to master 4-H beef along with you! Bobby will tell

you important

information throughout

your manual.

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Each section, Skill Builder (or Builder) in this project has activities that will help your project group learn to do by doing while learning new skills and having fun!

What Skills Will You Learn?

To complete this project, members must: Complete the activities in each Builder OR a similar activity that focuses on

the same skills as you and your members may plan other activities Plan and complete the Showcase Challenge Complete the Portfolio Page Participate in your club’s Achievement (See the inside back cover for more

information about 4-H Achievements).

Members will be able to... Activities Page

Skill Builder 2

Moulds Explain how moulds affect animals Identify characteristics of moulds Know how to prevent

Virus and Bacteria Easier to treat Moisture level for hay Finding out ergot percents

11 11 11 11

Skill Builder

3

More Moulds Explain the effects of moulds Identify the different types of moulds Know how to prevent

Safe DON levels Symbiotic relationships Endophytes in tall fescue

straw?

14 14 14

Skill Builder 4

Nitrates and Nitrites Explain how Nitrate accumulation can

occur Identify the signs of Nitrate poisoning Know how to prevent and treat

Meadow brome grass Nitrate level

16 16

Skill Builder

5

Prussic Acid Poisoning Understand the negative effects of

Prussic Acid poisoning Identify signs and symptoms of Prussic

Acid poisoning Know how to prevent and treat

Plants suspect for prussic acid poisoning.

17

Skill Builder

6

Sweet Clover Poisoning Identify the signs of sweet clover

poisoning Understand how to prevent and treat

Mouldy sweet clover hay 19

Skill Builder

7

Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) Identify signs of PEM Explain the dietary risks of PEM Understand how to prevent and treat

Acute and subacute Plants high in sulphur Dietary components tested

21 21 21

Showcase &

Portfolio

Explain success in using the skills listed above

Showcase Challenge My Portfolio Page

22 23

When members successfully complete these builders, they will showcase what they have learned.

Skill Builder 1

Animal Records Fill in records Understand importance of neat and

organized records

Code of Practice Contract Beef Animal Record Feed Record Achievement Record Picture this! Health record

3 4 5 5 7 7

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Skill Builder 1: Animal Records

Dream it! Humans have had an inseparable relationship with animals and nature. People have served as their sole caretakers for centuries. As animal “caretakers” we must be responsible in our animal care methods. The use of proper animal husbandry practices minimizes stress, improves animal efficiency and profitability for the farmer, and ensures a safe, healthy, and wholesome product to the consumer at a reasonable price. Review the Code of Practice Contract. Discuss with your leader and other members and commit to follow proper care and handling of animals raised for food and fiber by completing the contract below.

CODE OF PRACTICE CONTRACT

The following describes general responsibilities of _________________________________ (4-H Member’s Name) And all persons in his or her authority in the proper case and handling of their animal(s). To provide food, water and care necessary to protect the health and welfare of my animals. To provide a safe and healthy environment for my animals that is clean, well ventilated, and provides ample space. To provide a well-planned disease prevention program to protect the health of my herd or flock. This includes a strong veterinarian/client relationship. To use humane and sanitary methods when it becomes necessary to dispose of my animals. To make timely inspections of all animals to evaluate the health and insure that all base requirements are being met. To insure proper handling techniques are used to eliminate any undue stress or injury when manual manipulation in necessary. To provide transportation for my animals that avoids undue stress or injury caused by overcrowding, excessive time in transit, or improper handling when loading or unloading. The willful mistreatment of my animals or the mistreatment of any animal will not be tolerated. In cases of mistreatment, I will notify the proper authorities. To make management decisions based on scientific fact and to consider the welfare of my animals. To learn about species-specific quality assurance programs.

I have read, understand and commit to the above statements __________________________________ 4-H Member __________________________________ 4-H Leader __________________________________ Parent/Guardian

Adapted from: Ohio Farm Animal Care Commission, Box 479, Two Nationwide Plaza Columbus, OH 43216-0479

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Do it! My 4-H Beef Animal Record Keeping beef animal records are important in identifying breeding and keeping track of health and disease issues. It is important to keep records neat and organized to make for easier reading.

Year: Comments

Project Animal

Birth Date

Breed

Breed of Sire

Breed of Dam

Tag/Tattoos/Brand

Birth Weight

Project Start Weight

Project Finish Weight

Selling Price

CONTINUATION HEIFER

Breeding Date

Type of Breeding

Sire

Pregnancy Check Date

Birth Date

Calf Birth Weight

Sex

Tag/Tattoos/Brand

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My 4-H Beef Animal Feed Record Keeping records on what you feed your animal is important to determine whether or not you will be making a profit when selling your animal. Keeping records will determine how much the total feed will cost you to raise your animal.

Time Period Start Weight

Weight x 0.03

Amount of Grain/Day

Amount of Forage/Day

Mineral/Salt

Sept.1-30 650 lbs 650 lbs x 0.03 = 19.5

9 lbs barley 10 lbs corn silage

2 oz 2:1 Mineral 1 oz salt

Supplement

0.5 lb distillers grains4 oz limestone

A) Total Feed (add up column)

B) Price of Feed

C) A x B = Cost

After your achievement, fill in the following: Reflect on these numbers - are you happy with them? Should anything be changed? If so, what?

Steer

Heifer

Cow

Final Weight Actual ADG (Average Daily Gain = lbs gained / number of days)

Cost/Pound Gained = Total cost of feed (all four columns of C) / total pounds gained

Steer 1350 lbs 750 lbs / 225 days = 3.33 lbs / day

Number of days from weigh day to achievement day. Example 225 End weight minus start weight = lbs gained. Example 1350 - 650 = 750 lbs

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For more examples visit the link below: http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/livestock/beef/baa05s02.html Use the following space to calculate your figures.

Example for calculating total feed cost for one month. Keep in mind that feed costs can vary greatly from year to year. Call your local feed mill for feed prices.

From September 1st to 30th

9 lbs barley $0.08/lb x 30 days $22.00

10 lbs corn si-lage

$0.02/lb x 30 days $6.00

0.5 lbs ddgs $0.095/lb x 30 days $1.40

2 oz of 2:1 min-eral

$18/25kg bag (remember 16 oz = 1 lb And 1 kg = 2.2lbs) 2oz = 0.125 lbs at $0.327/lb x 30 days

$1.22

1 oz salt $0.091/lb x 30 days $0.17

Total feed cost for September 1st to 30th $30.79

Now do this for the entire feeding period. Remember to account for the weight your calf is gaining and adjust it to your rations throughout the feeding period! As your calf gets bigger, it will eat more!

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In the space below attach a picture (If you have more than one 4-H beef animal please attach another picture) CCIA Number: CCIA Number:

MY 4-H BEEF ANIMAL HEALTH RECORD

Date

Procedure, Ailment, or

Disease

Medication, Treatment, Vaccination

Dosage

Route

Site

Withdrawal

Time

Nov 25 Deworming Ivermectin 1 mL / 22lbs Topical back 45 days

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Dig it! Think about the builder and activities you did… Why is it important to keep records of your beef animal, as well as health and feed records?

What are your goals for your beef project this year?

What’s next? Now it is time to learn some of the different nutritional disorders you may experience in your animal or herd. The next builder will discuss Moulds.

The province of Manitoba has developed a Premises Identification Program to be used as a tool for the planning and management of animal health and food safety emergencies A premises is a parcel of land where livestock or poultry are grown, kept, assembled or disposed of and includes farms, stables, pastures, feedlots, assembly yards etcetera. The Animal Premised Identification Regulation requires the owner or operator of a premises to provide specific land and contact information. For more information contact your local MAFRI GO Office or e-mail traceability@gov.mb.ca.

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Skill Builder 2: Moulds

Skills Checklist Explain how moulds affect animals Identify characteristics of moulds Know how to prevent

Dream it! There are different types of moulds that affect the feed one gives to their animals. Some of the moulds include: 1. Mycotoxins: Aflatoxin 2. Ergot: Ergotism 3. Fusarium Head Blight: Vomitoxin (Deoxynivalenol, DON) 4. Endophytes: Ergovaline and Lolitrem B It is important to have minimal mould in the feed produced as it can lead to serious health problems and potentially death. Mycotoxins What is a mycotoxin? Mycotoxins are toxins that have been produced by moulds. Some examples of moulds are: Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium cyclopium, Penicillium islandicum and Penicillium palitans. The most well studied of all the mycotoxins is aflatoxin which has been found on peanuts, brazil nuts, silage, corn, most cereal, hay and grasses. Moulds can produce toxic compounds on virtually any food or feed that will support growth. Turkeys, ducklings, pheasants, trout, cattle, swine, horses and people can all be affected by mycotoxins. In all species the young are far more susceptible than mature animals. Generally, ruminants appear to tolerate higher levels of mycotoxins and longer periods of intake than monogastrics. How do moulds and mycotoxins affect animals? Moulds affect animals in a variety of ways from decreased productivity to sudden death. Usually the first sign is a loss of appetite or feed refusal followed by weight loss. A few animals will abort (reproductive failure) and an occasional animal will die. With high intakes of mycotoxin or several types of moulds being consumed any one or a combination of the following symptoms may occur or develop: -liver damage, atypical interstitial pneumonia, bloody-slimy diarrhea or scours, arched back, dry gangrene at the end of the tail or top of hoof, kidney damage, lameness and/or swollen legs. Increased infections may occur since mycotoxins can cause higher decrease in immunity. In addition to the effect of mycotoxins on the animal’s health, milk and eggs are contaminated by the residues or mycotoxins or their metabolic products.

Important Words Look out for these

important words in this builder: Mycotoxin, Aflatoxin, Virus, Bacteria, Ergot

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Principles that characterize mycotic diseases: 1. The cause may not be immediately identified 2. The disease is not transmissible from one animal to another 3. Treatment with drugs or antibiotics has little effect on the course

of the disease 4. Outbreaks are usually seasonal, climate or weather related that

favours fungal growth and toxin production 5. Investigation indicates a specific association with a particular feed,

although large numbers of fungi found on a feed does not neces-sarily indicate toxin production.

A positive diagnosis of mycotic disease requires a combination of information: detection of fungal spores or even mould growth may be present without the production of mycotoxins. The documented presence of a disease is required for it to be caused by a mycotoxin combined with the detection of the mycotoxin in either feeds or animal tissues. Sometimes more than one mycotoxin can be present and their different toxicological properties may cause clinical signs and lesions that are not consistent when animals are exposed experimentally with one pure mycotoxin. Several mycotoxins may attack the immune system which may allow viruses, bacteria or parasites to create a secondary disease that is more obvious than the first. There is NO specific antidotes for mycotoxins, removal of the source of toxin will eliminate further exposure, blending feeds can help and assessing the level of moulds in feeds may guide feed mixing. Prevention The primary cause of aflatoxin or mycotoxin production is moisture; hence the proper harvesting, drying and storage are important factors in lessening the contamination and toxin production. Propionic acid, acetic acid and sodium propionate will inhibit mould growth, when producing high moisture grain using mould inhibitors may be beneficial. Treatment If your animals are showing signs of infection remove the source of the mould, animals may respond to vitamin B injections. Iron therapy may also help since hemorrhaging is a frequent problem. Ergot Ergot is a parasitic fungus; it replaces the seed in the heads of grasses and cereal grains. IT appears purplish-black in colour and has a hard banana-shaped dense mass from 6.3 to 19 mm long. Ergot can grow in rye, wildrye and bromegrass. It affects cattle, sheep, swine, horses and people. Acute ergot poisoning is caused by eating large quantities at one time and can produce paralysis of the limbs and tongue; it can also cause a disturbance of the gastrointestinal tract and cause abortion. Cumulative poisoning may develop with lower quantities of ergot being consumed over a longer period of time.

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Chronic poisoning produces gangrene of the extremities with subsequent sloughing off of hooves, ears and tails. Delirium, spasms and paralysis may occur before death. If the poisoning is noticed in time affected animals may recover if put on good feed. Poultry are more tolerant of ergot than other animals. Grain containing 0.06% ergot will reduce average daily gains and feed efficiency of finishing cattle. Six different alkaloids (poisonous compounds) are involved in ergot poisoning.

Do it! Research and record or discuss the following questions with your leader or other members. What are two differences between a virus and a bacteria? Which is easier to treat? What is the proper moisture level for hay to be baled at to prevent mould growth? How could you find out how much ergot is in a grain sample?

Dig it! Where can you go to find information you may need to know about moulds? What are some questions you have about how moulds can affect your animal and your business bottom line? Possibly plan a field-trip to a local feed company where members can learn from somebody who has hands on knowledge.

What’s next? In Skill Builder 3, you will learn about more types of moulds that can affect your feed and animals.

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Skill Builder 3: More Moulds Skills Checklist Explain the effects of moulds Identify the different types of

moulds Know how to prevent

Dream it! As a continuation from Builder 2, this builder examines causes and effects of other types of moulds. Fusarium Head Blight Most often fusarium head blight (FHB) is found in wheat, but can also infect barley, rye, oats and some forage grasses. FHB may also be called scab and can produce the toxin deoxynivalenol or DON and is sometimes called vomitoxin. DON can cause reduced feed intake and result in lower weight gains or productivity. DON levels are highest in the vegetative parts of the seed head therefore the chaff often has the highest toxin levels. Screenings could also contain a very high level of DON especially in a region that had a high incidence of FHB. Infected screenings can contain five time more toxin than infected grain and there is also an additive affect when feeding other mouldy feeds. In ruminants DON is poorly absorbed, extensively metabolized and cleared from the animals. Prevention Test any light test weight grain with visible mould or musty odour. DON is not destroyed by heat treatment so pelleting will not reduce the amount of toxin pre-sent. Agriculture Canada’s DON feeding guidelines for growing beef cattle is 5 ppm and for lactating cows 1 ppm. However, research conducted in the United States suggests feed levels of 1– ppm for cattle if the ration contains less than 40% grain. Example 1– Feeding DON infected grain to calves, if you know the level of DON in you wheat sample is 40 ppm: Step 1 500 lb calves, dry matter intake (DMI) is approximately 2.5% of their body weight 0.025 x 500 = 12.5 lb dry matter (DM) or 15 lb ‘as fed’ (containing moisture) Step 2. Wheat contains 40 ppm DON, the safe level based on US data is 10 ppm 10 ÷ 40 = 0.25 x 100 = 25% inclusion rate of the total ration Step 3 15 lb of feed to be fed x 0.25 = 3.75 lb of DON infected grain can be fed If we use the 5 ppm recommended by Agriculture Canada 5 ÷ 40 = 12.5% inclusion level or you could feed 1.88 lb of infected grain on an ‘as fed’ basis.

Important Words Watch out for these im-

portant words in this builder:

Fusarium Head Blight, Deoxynivalenol (DON), Endophyte, Ergovaline, Lolitrem B

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Example 2 - If you do not know what level of DON is in the grain: Step 1 500 lb calves, 15 lb of feed ‘as fed’ Want to feed 5 lb of infected barley grain, how much DON can it contain before you have to mix it with non-infected grain? 5lb ÷ 15 lb total feed = 0.33 or 33% of the ration Step 2 0.33y = 10 ppm, maximum DON feeding level Solve for y Y = 10 ÷ 0.33 Y = 30.3 ppm DON can be in the barley sample if feeding 5 lbs of grain in the ration Endophytes: Ergovaline and Lolitrem B Feeding cattle straw from seed producing perennial ryegrass and tall fescue may result in endophyte toxicity or poisoning also known as ryegrass staggers and fescue foot. These diseases are attributed to endophytes; and endophyte is a fungus that lives symbiotically inside the grass plant. The endophytes produce toxins that can provide disease and insect resistance to prevent plant tissue damage. These traits are beneficial for turf-type grasses when grown in areas with high insect and disease pressures that can reduce the life span of the stand. Endophyte fungi are only transmitted by the seed and its entire life cycle takes place inside the plant tissues. An individual plant will not become infected by neighbouring plants. Different species of endophytes infect tall fescue and perennial ryegrass and produce different toxins. The fungus that infects tall fescue produces Ergovaline as the major toxin. Ergovaline is concentrated in the reproductive parts of the grass plant especially in the seed screenings. Toxicity will NOT be reduced by pelleting the screenings. The fungus that infects perennial ryegrass mainly produces the toxin Lolitrem B. Ergovaline is typically only a problem in tall fescue and Lolitrem B is typically only a problem in perennial ryegrass. Each toxin produces different clinical signs. Ergovaline poisonings in livestock includes hyperthermia, elevated body temperature, lower feed intake, weight loss, lower pregnancy rates and decreased milk production. Fescue foot is associated with Ergovaline and is most apparent in the winter months, animals develop swelling in the legs and restricted blood flow causes tissues to die and hooves can detach from the feet in severe cases. Tails and ears may also be affected and start dying off. Ryegrass staggers is caused by the toxin Lolitrem B and causes tremors, severe incoordination and falling down. This condition requires a seven to fourteen day exposure period and clinical signs usually disappear in two to three days if the animals no longer consume the toxin containing feed.

Ergovaline, ppb Lolitrem B, ppb

Horses 300 - 500 Not determined

Cattle 400 - 750 1800 - 2000

Sheep 800 - 1200 1800 - 2000

Threshold levels of Ergovaline and Lolitrem B in the diet that can result in the clinical disease

Recommendation developed by Oregon State University, College of Veterinarian Medicine (Aldrich-Markham and Pirelli, 1995)

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Prevention of Endophyte Poisoning 1.Seed forage type tall fescue and perennial ryegrass with low or no endophytes. 2.Since the toxin is concentrated in the seeds, screenings from tall fescue and perennial ryegrass should never be fed to livestock. 3.Test the turf type for Ergovaline and Lolitrem B to determine the risk potential. 4.Do not feed infected plants to pregnant animals. 5.Mix non-endophyte containing forage with infected feed to reduce the overall toxin intake. Tub grinding and limit feeding of infected forage is also recommended. 6.Animals that are in poor condition are more susceptible to toxicity. Ensure that rations are properly balanced for energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins.

7.Threshold levels can be affected by stress and environment. All animals fed endophyte containing forages should be watched closely and the contaminated feed removed immediately if toxic symptoms are observed. 8.Ammoniating the straw has been shown to decrease the toxicity. 9.Use a chaff spreader while harvesting the forage see to reduce the amount of chaff baled since the endophytes are concentrated in the seed head.

Do it! Research and record or discuss the following questions with your leader or other members. If a wheat sample has 22 ppm DON would it be safe to feed 10 lb of wheat to 500 lb calves? What other symbiotic relationships occur in nature? What should you do if you suspect endophytes are present in your tall fescue straw?

Dig it! What can you to ensure lower percentages of mould present in your feed? What type of monetary affects would be associated with excessive amounts of moulds?

What’s next? In the next skill builder you will learn about the dangers of nitrates and nitrites. You will learn how nitrites are formed.

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Skill Builder 4: Nitrates and Nitrites Skills Checklist Explain how Nitrate accumulation

can occur Identify the signs of Nitrate

poisoning Know how to prevent and treat

Dream it! Nitrates and Nitrites Nitrate is taken up by plant roots from the soil and stored in the plant tissue as amino acids and proteins. The main site for this process is in the growing green leaves. Nitrate accumulation can occur in susceptible plants when (1) They are under stress from drought, insufficient sunlight or after spraying with herbicide. (2) Following heavy nitrate fertilization of soils with commercial fertilizer, green manure crop or with barnyard manure. There have also been occasions when animals get into inorganic nitrate or nitrite salts or fertilizer mistaking it for salt. It’s best to store inorganic fertilizers where no animals have access, away from the barnyard or pasture. Nitrate poisoning is seldom encountered in native plants under rangeland conditions, since they are very rarely fertilized. Major problems occur with cultivated forages such as cereals used as greenfeed, beet tops, sorghums, soybeans, corn for grazing. Weeds can also have high levels of nitrates, for example kochia, pigweed, lamb’s quarters, fireweed, and Canada thistle. Ruminants are more susceptible to nitrate poisoning than non-ruminants (monogastrics) because nitrate can convert to nitrite in the rumen. Nitrate (NO3) → Nitrite (NO2) Nitrites are more toxic than nitrates about 10 times more toxic. Signs of nitrate poisoning include: -Heavy breathing and accelerated pulse rate -Diarrhea -Frequent urination -Loss of appetite -General weakness -Trembling and staggering gait -Frothing at the mouth -Lowered milk production -Abortion -Blue colour of mucus membranes, muzzle, and udder due to lack of oxygen in the blood. -Death within 4.5 to 9 hours after consuming nitrates, the animal essentially suffocates from the lack of oxygen in its tissues.

Important Words

Watch out for these important words in

this builder: Nitrate, Nitrite

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Prevention More than 0.9 % nitrate on a dry matter basis may be toxic, therefore it’s a good idea to analyze your suspect feed. The chance of poisoning may be reduced by: (1) Feeding high levels of grains and other high energy feeds (molasses) and vitamin A (2) Limiting the amount of high nitrate feeds in the ration (3) Ensiling forages which are high in nitrates, fermentation reduces some nitrates to gas, avoid feeding silage until 3 or 4 weeks of storage. The nitrate (NO3) for of nitrogen (N) doesn’t appear to cause the actual toxicity. During digestion, the nitrate is reduced to nitrite a far more toxic form, its anywhere from 10 to 15 times more toxic. Nitrites formed from nitrates in the rumen are methemoglobin formers which are not efficient oxygen carriers or transporters and tissues and the animal becomes starved for oxygen. The lethal dose varies with the nutritional status of the animal, its size and the type of animal. The amount of nitrate containing feed consumed and if it was mixed with low nitrate feed.

Do it! Research and record or discuss the following questions with your leader or other members. You have a field of mature meadow brome grass would you have to worry

about the nitrate level? If you wanted to know the level of nitrate in the feed what would you do?

Dig it! What other factors might affect the nitrate levels in plants? Where might you find out this information?

Reported As:

Generally Safe

Caution

Feeding Management Required

Nitrate (NO3), % 0.5 0.5—1.0 1.0 +

Nitrate Nitrogen (NO3N), % > 0.12 0.12—0.23 0.23 +

Potassium Nitrate (KNO3), % 0.81 0.81—1.63 1.63 +

Methods of nitrate analysis and reporting, on a dry matter basis

What’s next? Skill builder 5 examines Prussic Acid poisoning. In this skill builder you will learn which plants contain prussic acid.

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Skill Builder 5: Prussic Acid Poisoning Skills Checklist Understand the negative effects of

Prussic Acid poisoning Identify signs and symptoms of

Prussic Acid poisoning Know how to prevent and treat

Dream it! Prussic Acid Poisoning (Hydrocyanic Acid—HCN) Prussic acid is found in the vegetative parts of specific cultivated and native forages. All prussic acid containing plants are quite palatable in contrast to many other poisonous plants. The main cultivated forage species of concern are: bird’s foot trefoil, corn, flax, sorghum and vetches. These generally contain cyanogenetic glycosides which can be hydrolyzed to prussic acid under a number of conditions during their growing season or as they are being digested by animals. Corn, flax and sorghums may develop toxic levels in new growth following a frost, a period of drought, a period of heavy trampling or physical damage. Heavy nitrate fertilization followed by an abundance of rainfall or irrigation may increase prussic acid poisoning potential of these crops. Native plants such as arrowgrass and chokecherry leaves may contain toxic levels of prussic acid. However, arrowgrass may not be very toxic if growing conditions are favourable and the plants are not abused in any way. When growth is inhibited it takes only 551 grams to 1360 g of the plant containing 0.6 g of prussic acid to kill a 273 kg animal. Chokecherry leaves are toxic whether green or dry and less than 30 grams are needed to kill an adult sheep. The signs and symptoms of prussic acid poisoning include nervousness, abnormal breathing, trembling or jerking muscles, blue colouration of the lining of the mouth, spasms or convulsions, respiratory failure which can lead to death. This type of poisoning is very rapid and often the first sign of a problem is that some animals are found dying or dead.

Do it! Research and record or discuss the following questions with your leader or other members. What plants in your area would be suspect for prussic acid poisoning?

Dig it! Where might you test the feed for your livestock to see if it contains prussic acid?

Important Words

Watch out for these important words in this

builder: Prussic Acid

What’s next? In Skill Builder 6 you will learn about sweet clover poisoning. You will learn how to prevent sweet clover poisoning, as well as how to treat it.

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Skill Builder 6: Sweet Clover Poisoning

Skills Checklist Identify the signs of sweet

clover poisoning Understand how to prevent

and treat

Dream it! Sweet Clover Poisoning Sweet clover poisoning is a hemorrhagic disease that gradually develops when animals consume toxic quantities of mouldy sweet clover hay or silage. As the forage spoils, the harmless coumarin compound in sweet clover is converted to the toxin dicumarol. Any method of feed storage that allows mould to grow promotes the likelihood of dicumarol forming. Weathered large round bales, particularly the outer portion can contain the highest levels of dicumarol. When toxic hay is consumed hypoprothrombinemia results, it interferes with the blood’s coagulation factors. Dicumarol levels of 20 to 30 mg/kg of hay are usually required to cause poisoning in cattle. The toxic agent can cross the placenta of pregnant cows and the new born calf can be affected from birth, the blood is unable to coagulate. Clinical Signs Dicumorol interferes with the blood coagulation mechanism and internal hemorrhaging occurs. The time between consumption of toxic sweet clover to the appearance of clinical signs varies greatly and depends on the dicumarol content of the particular sweet clover variety being fed. Age of animals and the amount of feed consumed. If dicumarol content of the ration is low or variable, animals may consume it for months before signs of the disease appear. The first indication of dicumarol poisoning may be the death of one or more animals, the first signs may be stiffness and lameness due to bleeding into the muscles and joints. Bleeding in the intestinal tract and stomach may also occur. Death may occur suddenly with little preliminary evidence of disease and is caused by massive hemorrhage or bleeding after injury surgery or parturition. Neonatal deaths rarely occur without first seeing signs in the mother. In post mortem examinations blood will be gathered in the subcutaneous and connective tissues. Sweet clover poisoning is normally a herd problem, if only one animal is showing signs of slow blood clotting and hemorrhaging it is not from the sweet clover. Most diseases with hemorrhagic signs such as blackleg, pasteurellosis, bracken fern poisoning and aplastic anemia can readily be differentiated based on clinical, pathologic and hematologic findings. Treatment Remove all the mouldy sweet clover feed. All the severely affected animals should receive a subcutaneous or intramuscular injection of synthetic vitamin K. Since the reversal of dicumarol by vitamin K requires the synthesis of coagulation proteins, significant improvement will only occur after several hours; usually more than 24 hours is required to completely restore normal blood coagulation.

Important Words Watch out for these impor-tant words in this builder:

Sweet clover poisoning, Dicumoral

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Prevention To reduce the risk of poisoning use low coumarin sweet clover varieties. Although well cured sweet clover hay is not dangerous, the absence of visible spoilage is insufficient evidence of safety; there is no quick test for dicumarol. Feeding alfalfa grass hay or other forage other than sweet clover hay for 7 to 10 days and then feeding sweet clover forage for 7 to 10 days will limit their exposure. This may not prevent poisoning completely but can reduce the risk of bleeding out.

There is a greater risk of hemorrhaging at parturition; pregnant animals should not receive sweet clover hay for a minimum of two to three weeks and preferably four weeks prior to birth. If you are going to dehorn or castrate animals avoid feeding sweet clover forage for at least four weeks prior to the event.

Do it! If you have mouldy sweet clover hay what else should you feed to your cows?

Dig it! What are some costly effects that can occur with the presence of sweet clover poisoning?

What’s next? In the next skill builder you will learn bout Polioencephalomalacia (PEM). You will learn the signs of PEM and how to treat PEM.

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Skill Builder 7: Polioencephalomalacia (PEM)

Skills Checklist Identify signs of PEM Explain the dietary risks of PEM Understand how to prevent and

treat

Dream it! Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) PEM is an important neurological disease of ruminants denoted by lesions or softening of brain tissue. Historically PEM has been associated with altered thiamine status and more recently linked to feeding high levels of sulphur (S). Other toxic or metabolic diseases for example acute lead poisoning, sodium toxicosis or water deprivation can result in PEM. Younger animals are generally more affected by PEM than older animals. Animals on high concentrate diets are at higher risk, but pastured animals also can develop PEM. Cattle fed rations with added sulphate to limit intake or with byproducts of corn biofuels or malting plants are at a higher risk. PEM has been associated with two types of dietary risks:

1. Altered thiamine status –a thiamine deficiency 2. High sulphur intake

A beneficial response to thiamine therapy by PEM affected animals is sometimes considered evidence of thiamine inadequacy, if given early on in the disease. Large doses of thiamine beyond maintenance may have a nonspecific beneficial effect in the energy impaired brain. PEM associated with high sulphur intake is more common. The central nervous system is dependent on high and uninterrupted level of energy production, which can significantly be affected by energy deprivation. Dietary sulphur sources include -drinking water that contains high levels of sulphates, feed ingredients such as barley malt pellets, molasses by products and cruciferous plants: turnips, canola, mustard and oil seed meals normally produce S rich products. Canada thistle, kochia and lamb’s quarters can also accumulate S and if mixed with other S containing feeds and water can elevate the dietary S level. Signs of PEM The acute signs of PEM are blindness, unable to get up, seizures and coma. The longer the animal has acute symptoms the poorer its response to therapy and results in a higher mortality rate. Subacute PEM symptoms include an initial separation from the group, animals will stop eating and display twitches of the ear and face. The head is held in an elevated position and there is staggering and sometimes the animal will walk with an over-reaching step or gait. As the disease progresses the animal may start to heat press and become blind; grinding of teeth may be heard.

Important Words

Watch out for these important words in this

builder:

Polioencephalomalacia (PEM)

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The maximum tolerated concentration of S in the diet is considered to be 0.4% S on a dry matter basis. This should not be considered the absolute maximum. Many cattle adapt adequately to sulphur intake levels greater than 0.4%, although negative effects, possibly subclinical decrease in performance may occur. Treatment of PEM To treat PEM a thiamine injection of 10 to 20 mg/kg intra-muscular or subcutaneous can be given. The initial treatment may be administered intravenously; the beneficial effects are usually observed within 24 hours an sometimes sooner, however if there is no initial improvement, treatment should be continued for three days (Merck Vet. Manual). A dietary supplement of thiamin at 3 to 10 mg/kg feed has been recommended for prevention but the efficacy of this approach has not been carefully evaluated. Dietary ingredients or water with high S concentration should be avoided; if this is not possible then a gradual introduction to the higher S levels may improve the chances of successful adaptation.

Do it! Research and record or discuss the following questions with your leader or other members. What does acute and subacute mean? What plants or feed components in your area would have high levels of sulphur? What two dietary components should you test to see what the sulphur level is?

Dig it! What kind of steps might one take to reduce levels of sulphur in feed components?

What’s next? Now that you have finished all the builders in this project, it is time to think about and plan for the Showcase Challenge on page 22, which will help prepare for your 4-H Achievement. Page 23 is your Portfolio Page where you can make sure your Mastering Beef Project Skills Chart is complete. There will also be space for you to write down some thoughts and reflections on the project (what you liked, didn’t like, etc.)

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Demonstrate something you made or learned about

Make a poster or display

Make a pamphlet Make a computer presentation (e.g. PowerPoint)

Give a speech Write a report

Use your new skills to help with the Club Achievement plans

Or come up with your own idea. It is up to you and your leader!

Dream It!

Here are some Showcase Challenge Suggestions:

Now that you have finished this project, it is time to think about how you will share your experiences and knowledge with others. You may put your new skills to work by helping at a community event or at your club Achievement or teaching others about your topic. The goal of the Showcase Challenge is to help highlight your new skills and help you understand how you can use them. It can be an opportunity to receive feedback from others on your project. So go back through your manual and find some highlights of your learning (what you are proud of) and think about how you will “showcase” it.

Showcase Challenge Bringing it all together!

My Showcase Challenge Plan My showcase idea: _________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

What materials and resources do I need? ________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

Who do I need to help me? __________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

When do I need to have things done by? ________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

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My 4-H Portfolio Page Mastering Beef Project Skills Chart

To be completed by the leader and the member based on observations and conversations throughout the project.

Name: __________________ Date: _____________ Year in 4-H: ____ Club: _____________ Hours Spent on 4-H: ____(Project and Other 4-H Activities)

Skill Builder

Members will be able to… Each Skill Builder had a Skills Checklist which identified the skill you will learn.

We know this because… Identify activities completed and record

observations and information from discussions about activities.

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Moulds Part B - General information, identification and how to prevent

4

Nitrates – general information, identifica-tion, how to prevent and treat

5

Prussic Acid Poisoning – general informa-tion, identification, how to prevent and treat

6

Sweet Clover Poisoning – general infor-mation, identification, how to prevent and treat

7

Polioencephalomalacia – general informa-tion, identification how to prevent and treat

Beef Project Animal Complete Achievement

Additional Comments/Activities:

1 Record Keeping

2 Moulds Part A - general information, identification, how to prevent

Leaders Point of Praise! I am most impressed by… I acknowledge that the member has completed the 4-H project requirements. Leader’s Signature:

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Above and Beyond! In addition to project skills, 4-H also increases skills in meeting management, communications,

leadership, community involvement through participation in club, area, or provincial 4-H events or activities. List below any activities you participated in this year in 4-H.

(Some examples include Executive Positions Held, Workshops, Communication, Community Service, Rally, Bonspiels, Conferences, Judging, Camps, Trips, Awards, Representation to Area or

Provincial Councils, etc)

_____________________________ __________________________________

_____________________________ __________________________________

_____________________________ __________________________________

______________________________ ___________________________________

______________________________ ___________________________________

______________________________ ___________________________________

**Feel Free to add additional pages that include awards, certificates, new clippings, photos or other items that describe your 4-H involvement.

Member Point of Pride! What I learned… What I need to improve on… What I want others to notice… Member’s Signature: _______________________________

Point of Praise! Another’s perspective on your achievements in 4-H. (community professionals, MAFRI staff, 4-H club head leaders, 4-H Ambassadors, friends of 4-H)

I am most impressed by… I believe that you have learned… In the future I encourage you to… Signature: _______________________________

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4-H Achievement

4-H Achievement is… a 4-H club celebration when members have completed their projects. Achievements are planned by the club to give recognition to members and leaders for their accomplishments in their 4-H projects and club activities.

A 4-H Achievement can take many different formats: from choosing a theme, to member project displays, to members using their new skills for the event (entertainment, food, decorating, photographer, etc.), to members presenting their project to the whole group, the options are endless and open to the creativity of the members and leaders in each club! Clubs may also plan their Achievement to promote 4-H to the community or to recognize sponsors and others who have helped the club. Members and leaders - be sure to check your project books for the project completion requirements, so you will be ready for your club’s Achievement celebration!

For more information about 4-H and the many 4-H opportunities available please visit

http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/4-h/

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions for this or other 4-H projects contact:

Manitoba 4-H Projects

Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives 1129 Queens Avenue

Brandon, MB R7A 1L9

Email: 4h@gov.mb.ca

Phone: 204-726-6613 Fax: 204-726-6260

This manual is for educational use only and is not intended as professional advice.

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4-H Motto

“Learn To Do by Doing” 4-H Pledge

I pledge, My HEAD to clearer thinking, My HEART to greater loyalty, My HANDS to greater service, My HEALTH to better living, For my club, my community, and my country.

What is 4-H?

4-H is an international youth organization involving more than 7 million members in 80 countries around the world. In Canada, 4-H began in 1913 in Roland, Manitoba as a community-based organization dedicated to growth and development of rural youth. Today’s 4-H program reaches both farm and non-farm youth across Canada. The motto of “Learn to Do by Doing” is embodied in the program, as 4-H focuses on skill development as well as personal development of life skills such as communications, leadership and citizenship.

Manitoba 4-H project material is developed by

Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI)

4-H Quality Equation Principles

Quality People Promote responsibility, respect, trust, honesty,

fairness, sportsmanship, citizenship, teamwork and caring.

Quality Experiences Provide members with personal development and

skill development experiences. Quality Projects

Promote and value quality effort.

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