- Caused by C. septicum, which is normally found in gut and soil, this organism can proliferate particularly in animals fed autumn forage crops or roots that have been frosted. Disease is suspected to be due to frost damage to the lining of the abomasum (fourth stomach) which allows the organism to grow and produce toxin. Clinical signs include sudden death or severe depression if found alive.
- Clostridium haemolyticum infection
- Infections with C. haemolyticum (C. novyi Type D) can lead to systemic effects mainly in cattle (though rarely in sheep and very rarely in dogs) and haemoglobinuria. The organisms are usually found in the soil and intestines in certain regions of Ireland e.g. Limerick / Tipperary and lodges in the liver. Liver fluke may be a trigger for proliferation. Clinical signs are most commonly of sudden death, though affected animals may show abdominal pain, dysentery, variable levels of jaundice/anaemia and haemoglobinuria prior to death. Outbreaks can occur. Characteristic pathology on post mortem examination include haemoglobinuria and icterus. Affected animals are usually adult.