Equines are especially sensitive but reports occur in many species.
The cantharidin remains toxic even after the death of the beetle. Clinical signs are characterized by abdominal pain, depression, frequent urination, and shock. Laboratory findings include hemo-concentration, neutrophilic leukocytosis, hypercalcemia, hematuria, and low urine specific gravity. Necropsy findings include sloughing of stratified squamous epithelium of the stomach, hemorrhage and ulceration in the urinary bladder, and myocardial necrosis. This common beetle may be of value in disposing of feces and the parasite eggs that would be in them.