Nitrate poisoning

Nitrate poisoning is caused by high nitrate levels in feed and is usually a problem in late autumn or winter, particularly during a flush of growth after a dry summer. Sheep, cattle, deer and goats can all be affected. Cattle are the most susceptible and sheep the least so. Nitrate poisoning can occur with short-term ryegrasses, oats, brassicas and occasionally other new pastures with a rapid growth rate.