Review on lead poisoning in domestic animals: Prevention and control strategies

Lead is a persistent environmental heavy metal widely used in paints, automotive batteries, lubricant for engines and piping materials. Despite regulatory efforts, lead exposure remains an important cause of toxicosis in domestic animals. Therefore, the present review focus on delivering essential information concerning lead poisoning on domesticated animal species, its adverse impact and establish clear frame work for effective prevention and control strategies in veterinary settings. Poisoning usually occur when animals accidentally ingest metallic lead, lead containing materials, contaminated feeds or graze on polluted pastures. Among livestock, cattle, particularly young animals, are most commonly affected because of their feeding behavior and higher gastrointestinal absorption capacity. Reported outbreaks show morbidity rates ranging from 10 to 30 percent, while case fatality may approach 100 percent in untreated cases. After ingestion, approximately 2 to 10 percent of lead is absorbed, and 60 to 90 percent of the absorbed fraction bind to erythrocytes before distributing to soft tissue. Over time, significant amount accumulates in bone as a long-term storage site. In cattle, blood lead concentrations above 0.35 ppm are suggestive of poisoning and renal cortical concentration exceeding 25 mg/kg wet weight are considered diagnostic. Lead causes multisystemic toxicity primarily affecting the nervous system, gastrointestinal, hematopoietic, renal, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and reproductive systems. Clinically, poisoning typically presents in three main forms: acute encephalopathy, gastroenteritis and peripheral neuropathy, depending on the dose and duration of exposure. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation supported by laboratory confirmation of elevated blood or lead levels in tissue. Although treatment options such as supportive therapy, chelation with calcium disodium EDTA, and surgical removal of retained lead particles are available, preventions remain the most effective approach. Restricting animals access to contaminated areas, ensuring proper disposal of lead-containing materials, monitoring environmental sources and maintaining adequate mineral nutrition are essential control strategies. In summary, lead poisoning continues to represent a significant toxicological and food safety concern in domestic animals. Early recognition, timely intervention and strong preventive management practice are critical to reducing animal mortality and protecting public health.