Dilution is most effective when the low nitrate feed can be blended or mixed directly with the high nitrate feed. Release cattle in the afternoon when night-time nitrate accumulations have subsided. In addition, avoid grazing shortly after a drought-ending rain. Stock lightly so animals can choose lower nitrate leaves over higher nitrate stems. Provide large quantities of fresh drinking water.
Water dilutes nitrate concentrations in the rumen and reduces the potential of toxicity.
Do not allow livestock to have direct access to fertilizer materials containing nitrates. Losses have occurred because cattle had access to storage areas, fertilizer spreaders, broken bags of fertilizer, or fertilizer spills in pastures. Cattle in cold or inclement weather are more susceptible to nitrates and are more likely to consume stalks which contain more nitrate. Treatment for Nitrate Poisoning Due to the acute nature of this toxicity, for treatment to be successful it should be done immediately when symptoms are observed. Also, due to the fact that the oxygen transport system of blood is compromised, death by suffocation will occur, sometimes within minutes of observing symptoms especially if the animal becomes excited or exerted.