Sodium carbonate intoxication on a chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) farm: a case report

Abstract

Massive deaths were reported on a chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) farm, which over 10 months led to the elimination of the herd. After three months of feeding, longitudinal precipitates inside the pellets were noted. The first symptoms were observed two weeks after the introduction of feed, and included lethargy, decreased mobility, and reduced appetite, as well as increased reactions to external stimuli. Over time, single deaths, hair loss and gnawing, white discolorations on teeth, and polyuria were reported. Haemorrhages of the reproductive tract and mass abortions were observed. Necropsy revealed the presence of transudate with pH = 10, severe hyperaemia of the intestinal mesentery, and extensive regressive lesions in the gastric and intestinal mucosa. Both grossly and microscopically, lesions were noted in the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, and lungs. The urinary bladder was overfilled. No lesions were observed in the spleen or mesenteric lymph nodes. Histopathology of skin specimens revealed atrophy of the hair follicles. Diagnosis was sodium carbonate intoxication. Owing to the specific features of this species, it was impossible to introduce emetic-based treatment in order to eliminate the toxic agent from the body. No therapeutic measures were undertaken because of the late diagnosis of the toxic agent and late removal of feed, as well as extensive lesions on the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Comparison of the use of sodium carbonate (washing soda crystals) and apomorphine for inducing emesis in dogs

“…To date, there has only been one published case report documenting adverse effects of chronic oral sodium carbonate intoxication on a chinchilla farm . Documented necropsy findings of a population of affected chinchillas included lesions in the gastrointestinal mucosa, liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, lungs, skin and reproductive tract, which ultimately led to mass abortions and death.…”

“…To date, there has only been one published case report documenting adverse effects of chronic oral sodium carbonate intoxication on a chinchilla farm. 18 Documented necropsy findings of a population of affected chinchillas included lesions in the gastrointestinal mucosa, liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, lungs, skin and reproductive tract, which ultimately led to mass abortions and death. The inhalation of aerosols containing sodium carbonate resulted in pathological lesions in the respiratory tract of mice, rats and guinea pigs 19 and ocular application of sodium carbonate powder caused ocular inflammation in rabbits from the alkaline nature of sodium carbonate powder.…”

Causes of stress and conflict in the veterinary professional workplace – a perspective from Poland

“…A conflict may arise, e.g. as a result of a defect in feed formula [ 11 , 30 , 38 ] which leads to the deterioration of animal health and increased mortality or animal defects [ 2 , 18 ] and makes an animal defective as a subject of the contract of sale. There are also feed producers or animal suppliers who become a party to the conflict.…”