Levantamento das principais plantas tóxicas da Região Semiárida e sua interferência na reprodução de pequenos ruminantes: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Ruminants are animals of great socioeconomic importance in Brazil. They are involved in various forms of the market, such as meat export, milk production, and genetic improvement of some breeds. To ensure a quality product, it is necessary to provide the animals with a good quality of life and welfare so that there are no factors that interfere with production and reproduction. The issue of poisoning from abortive plants in ruminants is a topic of great relevance for Brazilian livestock, as it affects the health and productivity of the animals, causing complications in their reproductive system, as well as economic and social losses. This poisoning typically occurs during periods of pasture scarcity in dry seasons, when there is a lack of proper feeding management and recognition of the plants present in the pastures. It is very important to know the plants present in pasture areas and to prevent animals from accessing potentially toxic plants. Moreover, it is recommended to perform an adequate diagnosis of plant poisoning, mainly through the observation of clinical signs, analysis of ingested plants, and findings from necropsy. Treatment for plant poisoning depends on the species involved, the dose ingested, the time elapsed since exposure, and various physiological factors specific to each animal. Methods to minimize the effects of toxicity may be used, including fluid therapy, blood transfusion, or symptomatic treatment.