Pine Needle Abortion in Cattle
Publication Type: |
Generic |
Year of Publication: |
2001 |
Authors: |
Kevin D. Welch, Cory Parsons, Bryan L. Stegelmeier, Dale R. Gardner, James A. Pfister, Daniel Cook, Lynn F. James, Kip E. Panter |
Publication/Journal: |
Arizona Ranchers' Management Guide |
Keywords: |
abortion, cattle, cows, livestock, pine needle abortion, pine needles, pna, poisonous plants, toxic plants |
Abstract:
Since the early 1900s livestock producers have had problems with pine needle abortion (PNA). Cattle often eat pine needles, and pregnant cattle that are allowed to eat pine needles will abort, resulting in dead or premature calves, retained placentas, and uterine infections. The problem is found throughout the western United States and Canada.
Many PNAs are caused by ponderosa pine, but other trees including lodgepole pine, common juniper, and others also cause abortions (Table 1). Analysis of other
Pinus species for isocupressic acid, the causative toxin, continues. Research has identified the causative toxins, a probable mechanism of abortion, and when animals are most likely to abort. Additionally, research has provided some guidelines on how to avoid PNA.
Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) is an abundant, extremely hardy, and drought resistant tree that is common in the western regions of the United States and Canada. Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) is also common in the western United States as it grows well at high elevations and its tall, slender growth make it excellent for commercial uses such as poles, fences, and log buildings. Common juniper (Juniperus communis) is a low understory shrub found in high elevation forests. Other species, listed in Table 1, grow in similar habitats. Abortions will occur if sufficient amounts of needles, duff, new growth, or bark are consumed.