Chronic arsenic poisoning in pigs associated with groundwater contamination

Arsenic is a heavy metal ubiquitous in soil, rocks and water. Both acute and chronic toxicity are reported in various species of animal, including humans, although publications specifically related to pigs are uncommon. This article describes a case of chronic arsenic poisoning in a pig finishing unit associated with the use of contaminated water being used to produce liquid meals and as source of water. Food safety was also considered. Mortality linked to clinical signs (lack of coordination, flaccid limb paralysis, collapse) was 2.8%. Resolution of the clinical case was reached by replacing 50% of the water used for producing the meals with dairy whey, thereby lowering the exposure dose. In conclusion, the presence of inorganic arsenic at the dose of 300 μg/L in drinking water administered for more than 6 weeks in pigs weighing 30–60 kg might determine a chronic intoxication.