Botulism (Clostridium botulinum)
Toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum cause progressive flaccid paralysis, but pigs are very resistant to the toxin.
Description
Botulism is caused by Clostridium botulinum, an organism that grows in vegetables in decomposition and produces toxins which are then ingested. Botulism is rare in pigs. It must be considered as a food intoxication.
Symptoms
All ages
It is seen approximately 4-48 hours after ingestion of the toxin.
- Muscular paralysis.
- Weakness of limbs ending in complete paralysis.
- Blindness.
- Excessive salivation.
- Loss function of the urinary bladder.
- Forced respiration.
Causes / Contributing Factors
- Feed in decomposition.
- Contaminated feed or water.
Diagnosis
- It is based on the symptoms, evidence of feed in decomposition and laboratory results showing the presence of toxins.
Control/Prevention
- There is no specific treatment.
- Prevent accidental contamination with feed.
