The Union County Journal

Veterinarians point out that DDT may be applied to animals in either powder or liquid form, the latter as a spray or dip. When a sprayer is used, sufficient pressure must be obtained to insure adequate penetration. For example, for unshorn sheep a sprayer should develop at least 400 pounds pressure at the nozzle, while 250 pounds pressure is enough for cattle.

Aqueous preparations, although made with a wetting agent or a wettable form of DDT, have the disadvantage of settling out and consequently require frequent agitation. On the other hand, oily preparations of DDT, while more effective, are considered more likely to produce toxic reactions following external applications. Perhaps the most desirable preparation from all standpoints is the emulsion.

When DDT is applied externally to farm animals as a powder or in aqueous suspension or emulsion, there is, relatively little danger of toxic effects. When an oil or kerosene is used, however, absorption of the compound may occasionally be sufficient to cause toxic manifestations. The symptoms of DDT poisoning in animals are loss of appetite, excitement, tremors and convulsions. When poisoning occurs, the veterinarian may employ certain antidotes to counteract these effects.