Hydrocyanic acid poisoning in animals: causes, symptoms and treatment

introduction

Hydrocyanic acid poisoning is a serious and potentially fatal threat to animals. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods of hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals.

Causes of hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals

Plants and seeds

A major cause of hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals is the ingestion of plants or seeds that contain cyanogenic glycosides. These include, for example, bitter almonds, apricot kernels, cherry laurel and many other plants. When animals eat these plants or seeds, the cyanogenic glycosides are converted into hydrogen cyanide (HCN) by enzymes in the body.

Industrial chemicals

Industrial chemicals such as acetonitrile, used in the production of plastics and adhesives, can also cause hydrogen cyanide poisoning. These chemicals can enter the environment through spills or improper disposal and can be ingested by animals.

Symptoms of hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals

Hydrocyanic acid poisoning can cause a variety of symptoms in animals, including:

1. Difficulty breathing : shortness of breath, rapid and shallow breathing, or even stopping breathing
2. Cardiovascular problems : Increased heart rate, irregular pulse, low blood pressure
3. Nervous system : tremors, convulsions, paralysis
4. Digestive system : nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

Diagnosis of hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals

The diagnosis of hydrogen cyanide poisoning is based on the history, clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. In some cases, the smell of bitter almonds from the animal's mouth or skin may be an indication of prussic acid poisoning. Blood tests can help determine the level of HCN in the animal's body and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of hydrogen cyanide poisoning

Treatment for prussic acid poisoning should be carried out by a veterinarian as quickly as possible to ensure the animal's survival. Treatment usually consists of:

1. Removal of the cause : If possible, the animal should be removed from the source of poisoning.
2. Oxygen therapy : Because hydrogen cyanide poisoning impairs the body's ability to absorb oxygen, providing supplemental oxygen is crucial.
3. Administration of antidotes : Injections of sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate can help remove hydrogen cyanide from the body and neutralize the poisoning. However, these antidotes should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

4. Fluid intake and electrolyte replacement : Because prussic acid poisoning can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, it is important to provide the animal with fluids and electrolytes.
5. Supportive therapy : Depending on the symptoms and severity of the poisoning, additional supportive therapy approaches, such as the administration of pain medications or the use of heat therapy, may be necessary.

Prevention of hydrogen cyanide poisoning

To prevent hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals, pet owners should:

1. Remove cyanogenic plants and seeds from the animal's environment or make them inaccessible.
2. Store and dispose of industrial chemicals safely to minimize the risk of exposure.
3. Regular veterinary visits to monitor the animal's health and early detection of possible risk factors.

Frequently asked questions about hydrogen cyanide poisoning in animals FAQs:

Article summary

Hydrocyanic acid poisoning in animals is a serious and potentially fatal threat that can be caused by ingestion of cyanogenic plants, seeds or industrial chemicals. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, cardiovascular problems, neurological disorders and digestive problems. Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including administration of antidotes, oxygen therapy and supportive therapy, is critical to the animal's survival. Preventative measures such as removing cyanogenic plants and seeds and safely storing and disposing of chemicals can help reduce the risk of hydrogen cyanide poisoning.

Outlook on current research

Current research focuses on developing new antidotes and treatments to improve survival rates in animals with hydrogen cyanide poisoning. In addition, scientists are also researching possible genetic factors that could influence animals' susceptibility to hydrogen cyanide poisoning in order to develop targeted prevention strategies.