Similarities between so-called kikuyu poisoning of cattle and two experimental mycotoxicoses

The occurrence of disease and death in cattle grazing kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum) during the autumn in northern New Zealand has been reported by Cordes et al (1969). Further observations on the disease, commonly known in Northland as kikuyu poisoning, were made by Busch et al (1969). The above authors reported the occurrence of depression, salivation, dehydration, depressed rumen movements, haemoconcentration, elevated abomasal pH values, and in some cases diarrhoea, polydipsia and suspected abdominal pain, in affected cattle. Cordes et al (1969) expressed the opinion that the disease was probably a physiological disorder related to ruminal engorgement. Clinical and laboratory findings similar to those referred to above were again noted in cases of so-called kikuyu poisoning in Northland in 1970 and one of us (D.G.) examined tissues from 14 affected cattle…