Source: Texas A&M University
Researchers at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences have identified a serious risk to dogs from accidental exposure to ractopamine, a livestock feed additive used to promote lean muscle growth in cattle, pigs, and poultry. The case report, published in Veterinary Record Case Reports, documented two dogs treated for ractopamine toxicity. Both developed dangerous heart complications, including abnormal heart rhythms and heart muscle damage. One dog recovered after early intervention and hospitalization, while the second died after delayed treatment.
Researchers found that standard antiarrhythmic medications were ineffective because ractopamine overstimulates the body’s fight-or-flight system. Beta blockers proved more successful once veterinarians understood the mechanism involved. The findings highlight the importance of rapid Veterinary care and preventing dogs from accessing livestock feed or storage areas. The study also expands veterinary toxicology knowledge by documenting the first known natural exposure cases in dogs, helping veterinarians better recognize and treat future cases.
Read the full story HERE: https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/press-releases/ractopamine-toxicity-dogs-heart-damage/