Deoxynivalenol Mycotoxicosis, DON (Poisoning with the Fungal Toxin from Fusarium Species, Deoxynivalenol) in cats
- Occurrence: very rare
- Location of illness: General/Whole body
Deoxynivalenol mycotoxicosis in cats is a poisoning caused by the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON). This toxin is produced by certain Fusarium fungal species and can lead to a variety of health problems in cats if they consume contaminated food.
The most important facts at a glance
Deoxynivalenol (DON), also known as “Vomitoxin”, is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium fungi and commonly found in grains such as wheat and corn. Cats can come into contact with DON through contaminated food, which can lead to health problems. The toxicity of DON results from its ability to inhibit protein synthesis in cells, resulting in disorders of the immune system and digestive tract. Common symptoms in cats include Vomiting, Diarrhea, loss of appetite, and Weight loss.
The diagnosis of DON poisoning is based on the medical history and clinical symptoms, with laboratory tests being used for confirmation. Treatment focuses on removing the contaminated food source and symptomatic therapy, including the administration of antiemetics and antidiarrheals. Intravenous fluid therapy may be required in severe cases to prevent dehydration.
The prognosis is usually good if exposure is detected and treated quickly. Long-term health problems are rare, provided the cat is stabilized. For prevention, pet owners should choose high-quality food from reliable manufacturers and pay attention to correct storage to avoid mold growth. Regular inspections of the food for mold or unusual odor are advisable. A balanced diet can promote the cat’s overall health and reduce susceptibility to toxic influences. Pet owners should talk to their veterinarian about prevention measures and avoiding mycotoxin exposure.
Causes
Deoxynivalenol, often referred to as DON or “Vomitoxin”, is a mycotoxin produced by various Fusarium fungal species. These fungi are commonly found in grains such as wheat, corn, and oats, especially when harvest conditions are humid. DON is one of the most common mycotoxins and poses a significant risk to animal health if contaminated feed is consumed.
The toxicity of DON stems from its ability to inhibit protein synthesis in cells. This leads to a range of physiological disorders, including impairments of the immune system and the digestive tract. In cats, this can lead to Vomiting, Diarrhea, and reduced food intake, ultimately leading to Weight loss and malnutrition.
DON intake usually occurs through contaminated feed. Since cats are obligate carnivores, direct exposure to grains is usually low. However, contaminated grains can be processed into animal feed, increasing the risk of exposure. In particular, low-quality feed or those made from inferior ingredients are susceptible to DON contamination.
Symptoms
Cats exposed to deoxynivalenol often show a range of non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. The most common signs include Vomiting and Diarrhea. These symptoms usually occur shortly after consuming contaminated food and can lead to a rapid deterioration in general condition.
Other symptoms may include decreased food intake and resulting Weight loss. Some cats also show signs of lethargy and weakness, which may be related to reduced food intake and associated nutrient deficiencies.
In more severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances can occur, especially if the Diarrhea persists for an extended period. This can lead to secondary complications that require intensive veterinary treatment.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of deoxynivalenol mycotoxicosis in cats is primarily based on the medical history and clinical symptoms. Suspicion of DON poisoning should be considered if a cat presents with the symptoms described above and exposure to potentially contaminated food is known.
To confirm the diagnosis, laboratory tests can be performed to detect the presence of DON in the food or in the cat’s body. This can be done by analyzing food samples or through blood tests, with specialized laboratories being able to detect mycotoxin residues.
In some cases, a biopsy of the intestine may also be necessary to rule out other causes of the symptoms. This is particularly important because the symptoms of DON poisoning are not specific and can be confused with other gastrointestinal diseases.
Therapy
The treatment of deoxynivalenol mycotoxicosis in cats primarily focuses on removing the source of the poisoning and supporting the affected cat’s recovery. Immediate removal of the contaminated food is crucial to prevent further exposure.
Symptomatic treatments are often necessary to mitigate the effects of the poisoning. These include administering antiemetics to control Vomiting and using antidiarrheals to reduce Diarrhea. In more severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary to correct dehydration and restore electrolyte balance.
In cases where the cat is severely weakened or shows significant signs of malnutrition, temporary nutritional support may be required. This may include administering highly digestible, nutrient-rich food or using dietary supplements to ensure the cat receives all the necessary nutrients while recovering.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with deoxynivalenol mycotoxicosis depends on the severity of the poisoning and the speed of intervention. In most cases where exposure is quickly identified and the contaminated food is removed, the prognosis is good. Symptoms usually subside within a few days to weeks once the source of the poisoning is eliminated.
In cases of severe poisoning or if treatment is delayed, the prognosis may be less favorable. However, long-term health impairments are rare, provided appropriate measures are taken to stabilize the cat and stop exposure to the toxin.
Close monitoring and follow-up by a veterinarian are crucial to ensure the cat fully recovers and does not develop any long-term health problems.
Prevention
To minimize the risk of deoxynivalenol mycotoxicosis in cats, pet owners should ensure they use high-quality food that is free from mold and fungal contamination. It is important to obtain feed from reliable manufacturers who carry out strict quality controls and ensure that their products are regularly tested for mycotoxins.
The correct storage of cat food also plays a crucial role in prevention. Food should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to prevent mold growth. Opened cans or bags should be tightly closed and stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the freshness and safety of the food.
Regular inspections of the food for visible signs of mold or unusual odor are advisable. If contamination is suspected, the food should be disposed of and no longer used. A balanced diet tailored to the specific needs of the cat can also help promote overall health and reduce susceptibility to toxic influences.
Additionally, pet owners should speak with their veterinarian to stay informed about best practices for avoiding mycotoxin exposure and to be able to act quickly in the event of a case.