Enumerate different poisons, which are commonly suspected in animals. Mention the material along with its quantity to be collected in order of its importance.

Common Poisons Suspected in Animals

Poisons can be broadly classified into various categories. This categorization aids in targeted investigation and sample collection.

1. Organophosphates (OPs) and Carbamates

These are commonly used insecticides and herbicides. Accidental ingestion is frequent.

• Examples: Chlorpyrifos, Malathion, Carbaryl
• Materials to Collect (Priority Order):
  1. Vomitus/Gastric Contents: Crucial for detecting ingested material. Approximately 50-100 ml.
  2. Ruminal Contents (Ruminants): Approximately 500 ml.
  3. Blood Sample: 5-10 ml (for cholinesterase activity measurement – reduced activity indicates OP/carbamate exposure). Collect in EDTA tube.
  4. Urine Sample: 10-20 ml (for metabolite detection).
  5. Feed/Plant Material: Representative samples (approx. 100g) from the suspected source.

2. Heavy Metals

Lead, arsenic, and mercury are common culprits, often from contaminated soil, water, or feed.

• Examples: Lead (paint, fishing tackle), Arsenic (weed killers, historical use), Mercury (contaminated fish).
• Materials to Collect (Priority Order):
  1. Blood Sample: 5-10 ml (for metal levels – collect in heparinized tube).
  2. Urine Sample: 10-20 ml (for metal excretion).
  3. Hair/Feather Samples: (approx. 1g) – provide a historical record of exposure.
  4. Soil/Water Samples: From the animal’s environment (approx. 250g).
  5. Feed/Plant Material: Representative samples (approx. 100g) from the suspected source.

3. Plants

Many plants are toxic to animals, especially if ingested in large quantities. Toxicity varies with species, plant part, and animal sensitivity.

• Examples: Oleander, Azalea, Rhododendron, Yew.
• Materials to Collect (Priority Order):
  1. Plant Material: Identification and collection of the suspected plant(s). Label with location and date.
  2. Vomitus/Faeces: If ingested plant material is suspected. Approximately 50-100 ml/grams.
  3. Blood Sample: 5-10 ml (for specific toxin detection, if known).
  4. Urine Sample: 10-20 ml (for metabolite detection, if known).

4. Mycotoxins

These are toxic compounds produced by fungi that contaminate grains and feedstuffs.

• Examples: Aflatoxins, Ochratoxins.
• Materials to Collect (Priority Order):
  1. Feed Samples: Representative samples from the animal’s feed (approx. 250g).
  2. Blood Sample: 5-10 ml (for toxin metabolite detection – may require specialized testing).
  3. Liver Biopsy (if available): For advanced diagnostic testing (requires surgical expertise).

Poison Type	Examples	Priority Sample	Quantity (approx.)
Organophosphates	Chlorpyrifos, Malathion	Vomitus/Gastric Contents	50-100 ml
Heavy Metals	Lead, Arsenic	Blood	5-10 ml
Plants	Oleander, Azalea	Plant Material	Whole plant (identified)
Mycotoxins	Aflatoxins	Feed Samples	250g

The quantities listed are approximate and may vary depending on the specific diagnostic tests required. Proper preservation and labeling of samples are essential for accurate analysis. A chain of custody documentation is also vital for legal cases.