Nitrate poisoning in cattle. 6. Tungsten (wolfram) as a prophylactic against nitrate-nitrite intoxication in ruminants.

Abstract

The amount of nitrite formed in the rumen after supply of potassium nitrate was decreased considerably by tungsten, which was administered as sodium tungstate to cows orally and by rumen fistula in daily doses of up to 6.6 mg per kg body weight. This effect of tungsten depends on the molybdenum content of the fodder and can be overcome in the case of high molybdenum levels. The relationship between the nitrate intake of the animal, the dose of tungsten administered to the animal daily and the highest concentration of nitrite reached in the rumen is given as a mathematical equation as well as in the form of a triangular diagram. By means of this three-element relationship and as a result of kinetic studies on the action of tungsten, a dosage pattern of tungsten was elaborated. The effectiveness of tungsten as a protective against nitrate intoxication was proved on cows dosed repeatedly as well as with single doses of nitrate up to 500 mg NO3 per kg body weight. It is concluded finally that tungsten offers a high degree of protection against nitrate toxicity to ruminants. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)