When a toxicosis is suspected, but the specific toxin is unknown, the following should be performed:

1. Obtain a complete history.

2. Perform a complete physical examination or necropsy
   (depending on state of the animal)

3. If alive, freeze and save:

a. Vomitus (all available)
b. Urine (all available)
c. Whole blood (5 ml in red top clot tube)
d. Whole blood (5 ml in purple top EDTA tube)
e. Serum in plastic tube (if zinc toxicity is suspected)

4. If at necropsy:

a. Fix representative tissues in 10% formalin
b. Save samples for bacteriology and virology, if appropriate
c. Freeze and save the following for possible toxicology testing:

i. Liver (approx. lOOg)
ii. Stomach/rumen contents (approx. l00g or all available)
iii. Brain (1/2 if organophosphate toxicosis is suspected)
iv. Kidney (1/2)
v. Urine (all available)
vi. Eyeball or ocular fluid (if nitrate toxicosis is suspected)

5. If feed and/or water are possibly related:

a. One pound of feed, at least
b. One quart of water, at least

6. Call the ADDL for consultation on appropriate testing based on the clinical history and physical examination or necropsy findings.