ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical signs and pathology of a neurological locomotor disorder in sheep associated with ingestion of Stachys arvensis. DESIGN: Field observations and laboratory examinations. PROCEDURE: Clinical and pathological examinations were performed on sheep with suspected S arvensis intoxication. FIELD OBSERVATIONS: Merino sheep in a flock on the southwestern slopes of New South Wales developed a neurological disorder after grazing S arvensis. Affected animals had pelvic limb paresis and a proprioceptive deficit. When forced to exercise they stumbled and collapsed. Recovery following removal from the plant was slow. Many deaths were associated with the outbreak. RESULTS: Affected sheep developed a mild degenerative myelopathy and peripheral neuropathy. Deficiencies of vitamins A and E were also observed in the affected flock. CONCLUSION: Grazing S arvensis is sometimes associated with a neurological locomotor disorder in sheep.
Subject(s)
Gait Disorders, Neurologic/veterinary , Lamiaceae/poisoning , Plant Poisoning/veterinary , Sheep Diseases/epidemiology , Sheep Diseases/etiology , Animals , Gait Disorders, Neurologic/epidemiology , Gait Disorders, Neurologic/etiology , New South Wales/epidemiology , Plant Poisoning/epidemiology , Plant Poisoning/etiology , Sheep , Sheep Diseases/pathologyABSTRACT
Uncertainty exists regarding the ability of catnip (Nepeta cataria) to affect human consciousness. We report a case of a toddler exhibiting central nervous system depression after consuming a large quantity of catnip. His obtundation was not attributable to another cause. We review the published literature describing the alleged psychoactive capabilities of catnip and present our case as further information for use in this ongoing controversy.
