C. botulinum is found worldwide within the intestinal tracts of mam- mals and fish, and can also be found in soil or sediment. Animals become infected by ingestingvegetation that is contaminated with the botulinum toxin (such as decaying hay or grain) or through direct contact with soil that contains the bacteria.
What causes botulism in cattle?
Notes to editors: Botulism is a severe, often fatal, form of blood poisoning which can affect most animals. It is caused by toxins produced by bacteria which are present in high levels in decaying organic matter such as bird and animal carcasses.
Can animals get Clostridium botulinum?
Botulism in cattle is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum. Clostridium botulinum is commonly found in soil, water and marine sediments around the world, but it is also a normal inhabitant of the intestinal tract of many healthy horses, cattle and poultry.
How can animals prevent botulism?
Control and prevention demand use of high-quality feed; prevention of feed, water, and soil contamination; and vaccination. Botulism is a rapidly fatal motor paralysis caused by ingestion or in vivo production of the toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum types A–G.
Is botulism an airborne disease?
Airborne botulism does not occur naturally. However, if the toxin is intentionally released (bioterrorism) into the air it could be absorbed into the skin and lungs and cause the same symptoms as ingested botulism.
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What causes botulism in cattle?What causes botulism in animals?
