What is a common clinical sign of acute magnesium tetany in cattle?

In cases of acute magnesium tetany in cattle, a prominent clinical sign is the occurrence of tonic-clonic convulsions. This condition, often referred to as grass tetany, arises due to a deficiency of magnesium in the animal's system, which is vital for normal muscle and nerve function.

During an acute episode, low magnesium levels lead to increased neuromuscular excitability, resulting in overactive electrical impulses in the nervous system. This can manifest as muscle spasms and involuntary contractions, characteristic of tonic-clonic convulsions. The muscle activity can be severe and often includes generalized tremors or seizures, emphasizing the critical role magnesium plays in maintaining proper neuromuscular function.

Understanding this specific clinical sign is crucial as it aids in the diagnosis and prompt treatment of magnesium deficiency, which may otherwise lead to more severe complications or even death in cattle if left unaddressed.