Plant Description: Varies in size from large trees to shrubs. Large variation in leaf shape and size. All oaks produce acorns - the typical identifier of oaks Acorns and new shoots are most toxic. Toxic Principle: Tannins or their break down products Major effects on the gut and kidney. Disease: Most common in cattle; some sheep and goats & horses. Animals usually eat acorns or shoots for 3-10 days. a) cattle lose appetite; act depressed or weak b) early, there is constipation followed later by dark tarry diarrhea c) swelling may occur on underside of the body Treatment: Give fluids to rehydrate and flush the kidneys. Administer laxatives to help move acorns through GI tract Consider removing acorns from rumen in selected cases Re-establish rumen motility.
a) cattle lose appetite; act depressed or weak
b) early, there is constipation followed later by dark tarry diarrhea
c) swelling may occur on underside of the body