Phenoxy herbicide toxicosis in cattle, swine, and dogs primarily presents with which signs?

• A. Respiratory distress
• B. Hepatic failure
• C. Gastrointestinal and neurological signs
• D. Renal failure

Answer: (C)

Phenoxy herbicides act as irritants and CNS-active compounds. When cattle, swine, or dogs are exposed or ingest these agents, the most consistent presentation is a combination of gastrointestinal irritation and neurological effects. You’ll see signs such as vomiting, drooling, and decreased appetite from the GI tract, along with ataxia, tremors, and sometimes seizures from central nervous system involvement. These are the hallmark features because the compounds irritate mucosal surfaces and affect neural function, rather than primarily causing liver or kidney failure. So choosing gastrointestinal and neurological signs fits the typical pattern, rather than focusing on hepatic, renal, or respiratory primary issues.