Effects of Polybrominated Biphenyls on Health and Performance of Pregnant Holstein Heifers

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Abstract
The toxicity of a commerical blend of polybrominated biphenyls was determined in 24 pregnant Holstein heifers that were allotted randomly to 1 of 4 experimental groups given 0, .25, 250 or 25,000 mg/day of firemaster BP-6. The polybrominated biphenyls were mixed with finely ground corn and given by bolus for 60 days or until the animal became moribund. Average body weight of heifers at onset of experiment was 381 kg. No clinical signs of toxicosis were evident in heifers fed 0, .25 or 250 mg/day. Toxicosis was induced in heifers fed 25,000 mg/day resulting in reduced dry matter intake, body weight, heart rate and respiration rate. Clinical signs were anorexia, emaciation, dehydration, excessive lacrimation and salivation, diarrhea, depression and abortion or fetal death. All heifers fed 25,000 mg/day became moribund within 33-66 days.

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