Steve Ensley, DVM, Ph.D., a clinical veterinary toxicologist at the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, a part of the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, is warning pet and livestock owners about cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae. Cyanobacteria, which grow and replicate rapidly in warm, sunny environments where agricultural runoff deposits nutrients into waterways that allow the algae to thrive, can pose a health hazard to animals and humans who come into contact with the various toxins it produces. The most prominent problem involves a toxin called microcystin, which affects the gastrointestinal tract and liver, according to Dr. Ensley. When animals are exposed to this toxin, they may experience vomiting or diarrhea; if the exposure is severe, it can be lethal and cause liver failure in animals, Ensley said. “If there is a bloom in a body of water that animals are drinking out of, then we need to move them away from it as fast as we can,” Ensley said. “Fence off that water source if at all possible.” If livestock and/or pet owners are worried that their animals could potentially be exposed to blue-green algae, then they should regularly check for signs of its development, Ensley said. “There is some confusion between the blue-green algae blooms and other vegetation on water,” Ensley said. “If a blue-green algae bloom occurs, then it looks like blue or green paint was spilled on the surface of nonmoving water.” With warm weather and rainy days on the rise, the risk of blue-green algae blooms may not slow down soon. “It’s going to be a concern until we get into cooler weather, so it may be a problem until September as long as the weather stays warm and we continue to get rainfall,” Ensley said. “Rain causes lakes and ponds to become enriched with an excess amount of nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen, causing the bacteria to bloom at a more rapid pace.” Water samples for blue-green algae identification can be submitted to the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. When collecting a water sample, use gloves to prevent skin contact. Collect about 20 fluid ounces (or 500 milliliters) in a clean, leak-proof container, and include any visible scum. Keep the sample refrigerated, not frozen. Samples should be shipped to the laboratory in an insulated box with a cold pack. For more information, contact the Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at (866) 512-5650 or email clientcare@vet.k-state.edu.
