Bovine lead poisoning in Alberta: A management disease.

Lead poisoning was the most common toxicosis diagnosed in cattle by Alberta Animal Health Laboratories between 1964 and 1985 (n = 738 cases, x = 33.5 cases per year). Seasonal variation in incidence was evident, and occurrence was frequently associated with change in housing or pasture. Discarded batteries or used crankcase oil were implicated in more than 80% of cases for which the source of lead was determined.Pulmonary congestion, marked congestion and hemorrhage of thymus and heart, and presence of oil or lead particles in the ingesta were the most common postmortem findings. Eighty-six percent of cases were confirmed by elevated lead levels in tissues.Lead poisoning represents a significant, unnecessary loss to producers. Increased producer awareness and improved waste management on farms could significantly reduce the incidence of lead poisoning in cattle.