Polythene Peril: Watch for These Symptoms in Animals, It Could Be Fatal!

• Animals consuming polythene and plastic from open waste is a growing problem, especially in urban areas, leading to severe health issues.
• Pica disease, caused by calcium and phosphorus imbalance, particularly phosphorus deficiency, makes animals eat unusual items like polythene, stones, and nails.
• Ruminant animals, especially cows, are most susceptible as polythene accumulates in their stomach, unable to decompose or be expelled.
• Initial signs of polythene ingestion include persistent gas formation, bloat (afra), and in severe cases, 'Teerpi' disease, which can be life-threatening.
• Symptoms like weakness, reduced appetite, stomach swelling, undigested food expulsion, and restlessness indicate polythene ingestion; timely intervention is crucial.

Why It Matters: Polythene ingestion is a fatal threat to animals; recognize symptoms and prevent phosphorus deficiency and open waste disposal.