Seringa berry poisoning could be fatal for dogs and pigs alike

GARDEN ROUTE | KAROO NEWS - Melia azedarach, commonly known as Seringa, “Seringboom”, Cape lilac or China-berry, is an invasive tree that disrupts indigenous vegetation. The cultivar in South Africa was imported from India as an ornamental plant and is rather pretty with its lilac-scented flowers.

Sadly, the tree produces yellow-brown, wrinkled berries which are bitter and contain highly toxic meliatoxins.

The bitterness often prevents the consumption of large quantities by animals and children, but even a few berries are toxic to humans, ruminants, horses, pigs and dogs.

Signs of poisoning include vomiting and salivation in pigs, dogs and children. Severe abdominal pain develops along with diarrhoea and respiratory distress. Following these initial signs, nervous system-related symptoms start.

These neurological signs include lack of coordination, restlessness, muscle trembling and seizures, leading to coma and death in severe cases.

Humans usually recover from the toxins, but monogastric animals are affected more severely, especially dogs and pigs.

Pigs show dilated pupils and become paralysed, after which they remain recumbent, and death follows in 2-3 days.

There is no specific treatment for syringa poisoning.

Children and dogs can be hospitalised and given supportive treatment, such as intravenous fluids and sedatives to prevent convulsions.

Activated charcoal can be given immediately by mouth to bind toxins before dogs are taken to a veterinary clinic. Treatment like anti-convulsive medications can mitigate the severity of the symptoms.

The best prevention is to cut down all syringa trees in the area and to educate the community about the dangers of this tree. Communal pig farmers should ensure that there are none of these trees around their farming areas. Education is key, as the risk for children is also extremely high.

If you suspect poisoning, immediately consult with your family doctor in cases where children are involved and your nearest veterinary clinic for dogs.

We urge you to take a look out of your window and identify these trees in your garden and during the school holidays especially, this will be an important conversation to have with your children! Stay away from these berries when you play!

There is no specific treatment for syringa poisoning.