Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Conditions for Urea Toxicity in Cattle
Urea toxicity results in cattle when which of the following conditions are met?
(a) Rumen NH₃ level exceeds 80 mg/dl
(b) NH₃ concentration in blood exceeds 1 mg/dl
- Only (a) — rumen NH₃ > 80 mg/dl
- Only (b) — blood NH₃ > 1 mg/dl
- Neither condition
- Both (a) and (b) are correct — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Both (a) and (b) are correct
- Rumen NH₃ > 80 mg/dl: Bacteria cannot utilise excess NH₃; absorbed across rumen wall into portal blood.
- Blood NH₃ > 1 mg/dl: Liver's urea cycle capacity exceeded; systemic alkalosis and CNS toxicity.
Clinical Signs
Salivation, bloat, muscle tremors, incoordination, convulsions, respiratory distress — death within 30 minutes if untreated.
Treatment
- 20–40 litres cold water (inhibits urease)
- 4–5 litres 10% acetic acid (neutralises NH₃)
📚 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.
