Which of the following signs may be seen in animals suffering from pesticide poisoning?

• A. Convulsions, respiratory difficulty, lack of coordination or paralysis
• B. Hair loss and weight gain
• C. Sneezing and coughing only
• D. Lethargy and decreased appetite

Answer: (A)

Pesticide poisoning often disrupts nervous system function, leading to noticeable neurological and respiratory problems. Convulsions show severe central nervous system overstimulation, while respiratory difficulty reflects effects on airway smooth muscle, secretions, and respiratory muscles. Affected animals may also have impaired motor control, resulting in ataxia or paralysis. Together, these signs point to a neurotoxic or cholinesterase-inhibiting mechanism common with many pesticides.

The other options don’t capture this acute neurobehavioral/respiratory pattern. Hair loss with weight gain isn’t a typical acute pesticide sign, sneezing and coughing alone are too narrow, and while lethargy and decreased appetite can occur, they’re nonspecific and don’t reflect the characteristic neuromuscular and respiratory effects seen with pesticide exposure.