An outbreak of monensin poisoning in adult turkeys
Stuart, J.C.
Veterinary Record 102(14): 303-304
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 654035 Document Number: 127734
An increase in mortality in 2 commercial turkey breeding flocks, 32% in a flock of 1500 Triple 6 38 weeks old and 35% in a flock of 1100 Triple 5 47 weeks old in periods of 10 days, was attributed to the feed. Although the suspect diet had no apparent ill effect when given to fattening turkeys 11 weeks old or to day-old poults for periods of 14 days, when given to 1100 Triple 6 hens at the end of laying 55% died within 6 days. Extensive examination of the diet showed the unexpected presence of monensin (Elancoban), an anticoccidial drug, at 218 to 300 mg/kg. A diet with 200 mg/kg was given to 25 laying Triple 5 turkeys. Similar clinical signs, drowsiness, excessive thirst and panting and findings post mortem, small, pale spleen, developed and, within 6 days, mortality was 28%.