Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Cause of Lactation Tetany in Mares
Lactation tetany is caused by deficiency of magnesium, but in mare it is caused by deficiency of:
- Mg
- Ca — Correct Answer
- P
- Cu
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Ca (Calcium)
While classic Lactation Tetany (Grass Tetany) in cows and sheep is caused by Magnesium (Mg) deficiency, in mares (female horses) it is caused by Calcium (Ca) deficiency. This is an important species-specific exception.
Species-Specific Causes of Tetany
| Disease | Species | Deficient Mineral |
|---|---|---|
| Lactation Tetany / Grass Tetany | Dairy cattle, sheep | Magnesium (Mg) |
| Lactation Tetany | Mare (horse) | Calcium (Ca) |
| Milk Fever (Parturient Paresis) | High-yielding dairy cows | Calcium (Ca) |
| Eclampsia | Bitches (small breeds) | Calcium (Ca) |
Grass Tetany in Cattle — Key Facts
- Occurs in cattle on lush green pastures (low Mg content + high K interferes with Mg absorption).
- Ca and P act as antagonists to Mg absorption.
- Treatment: IV calcium-magnesium borogluconate solution.
- Prevention: Magnesium supplementation (calcite + magnesium oxide in mineral mix).
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Mg → causes grass tetany in cattle/sheep, not in mares; mares uniquely respond to Ca deficiency.
- P → phosphorus deficiency causes Pica and Post-parturient Haemoglobinuria (PPH), not tetany.
- Cu → copper deficiency causes Swayback (ataxia in lambs), not tetany.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
