Effect of Potassium Nitrate Intake on Dairy Calves

Abstract

Administration of KNO3 to bull calves indicated that the MLD for initial intake was in excess of 30 g per 100 lb. body weight. Toxic response to the compound varied between animals, but was not materially affected by experimental method of intake (by capsule or dissolved in milk). The level of KNO3 ingestion exerted little, if any, influence on the time required for the in vivo formation of maximal levels of methemoglobin (determined spectrophotometrically). Up to 1.3 g % nitrate, but no nitrite, was detected by microbiological assay of the urine from 2 calves receiving 25 g KNO3/100 lb. body weight and showing low levels of methemoglobin.