In a tropical Indian summer, its not just the scorching sun that the animals have to beat. If you have this beautiful shrub (photograph below) growing around, it might be giving your animal (and yourself) a tough time.
(Click on image to enlarge)
Behold Parthenium hysterophorus, commonly known as Gaajar Ghaans (Carrot Grass), Congress Grass or simply as Parthenium. Parthenium, as a genus, abounds many species but the notoriety of P. hysterophorus has transcended its identity as a species. Introduced accidentally in India with wheat imported from Americas in mid-1950s, this extremely invasive weed now grows abundantly in most parts of India. To my personal surprise, I have seen it growing in difficult areas like Aadi-Badri and Gopeshwar, and also in presumably well-managed landscapes like the IIM-Bangalore campus. The shrub, growing up to a height of about 3 feet in conspicuous bushes, bears small (less than half centimeter in diameter), relatively scent-less, white flowers; flowering begins after the rainy season. The stem appears to have faint white stripes along its length.
The plant is moderately toxic and the pollen is strongly allergenic. Pets exposed to even low quantities of the pollen may suffer from generalised itchiness, rashes, running nose, swollen and watery eyes, and breathing difficulties. Similar symptoms are seen in human beings; children are especially sensitive. In goats, cows and buffaloes, that may feed on Parthenium, the milk becomes distastefully bitter and the animals may develop strong photosensitivity, manifested as redness of the skin, hair-loss in patches and sometimes the skin may start peeling off.
It is best to prevent exposure to the plant. The shrub, if attended early, can be easily uprooted manually and should preferably be burnt off. In areas where the pollen load is high in the air, it is advisable to avoid taking pets outside during the evening, when pollen has not yet settled. An occassionally extra-sensitive subject may require air conditioning and dust-precipitators within the house. In the event of an allergic condition, it is best to refer to a veterinarian. The veterinarian will generally treat the animal with anti-histaminics and supporting alleviative therapy. Severe respiratory distress may prove life-threatening, especially in the small and brachycephalic (flat faced) breeds such as pugs. Milk from animals that have fed upon the plant must not be consumed for a period of up to seven days of last intake depending on the quantum of Parthenium ingested; such milk must be disposed off and should neither be offered to humans nor to animals. The affected animals should not be turned out of the barn and their treatment precludes antihistaminics and hepato-protectants alongwith adjunct supportive therapy.
I hope this helps. Forget not to send in your queries, comments and suggestions. You can write to vetchums@gmail.com.
