Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Cause of Chastek Paralysis
"Chastek" paralysis is due to deficiency of:
- Riboflavin
- Thiamin — Correct Answer
- Vitamin C
- Niacin
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Thiamin (Vitamin B₁)
Chastek paralysis is a severe Thiamine (Vitamin B₁) deficiency in foxes and mink caused by feeding raw fish containing Thiaminase enzyme. The enzyme destroys dietary thiamine, leading to nervous system degeneration and paralysis.
Thiaminase-Containing Foods and Their Effects
| Source of Thiaminase | Disease Caused | Species Affected |
|---|---|---|
| Raw fish | Chastek paralysis | Foxes, mink (fur animals) |
| Bracken fern | Bracken fern poisoning | Horses, cattle |
Thiamine Deficiency Diseases by Species
| Species | Disease | Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Birds (poultry) | Polyneuritis | "Star-gazer" position |
| Cattle/sheep (ruminants) | PEM / CCN | Blindness, convulsions, opisthotonus |
| Foxes/Mink | Chastek paralysis | Ataxia, paralysis from raw fish feeding |
Prevention of Chastek Paralysis
- Cook fish before feeding (heat destroys thiaminase enzyme).
- Supplement diet with thiamine (Vitamin B₁).
- Avoid feeding raw fish (particularly carp, herring) to fur-bearing animals.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Riboflavin (B₂) → deficiency causes "Curled toe paralysis" in chickens; not Chastek paralysis.
- Vitamin C → deficiency causes Scurvy; not associated with Chastek paralysis.
- Niacin (B₃) → deficiency causes Pellagra; not Chastek paralysis.
📚 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.
