Which substance has been known to cause crippling skeletal damage to cattle?

Fluorides are known to cause significant skeletal damage in cattle, a condition often referred to as fluorosis. This occurs when animals ingest high levels of fluorine from certain sources, such as contaminated water, certain forage plants, or mineral supplements. The accumulated fluoride can lead to the replacement of hydroxyl ions in hydroxyapatite, a critical component of bone, with fluoride ions. This substitution negatively alters the structure and integrity of bones, leading to symptoms like lameness, stiffness, and ultimately crippling bone damage.

Fluorosis is particularly prevalent in areas with high natural fluoride levels in drinking water or those involving industrial operations that release fluorides into the environment. The long-term exposure to elevated levels of fluoride primarily affects cattle and can lead to severe health issues.

Other substances mentioned have different health impacts on livestock but are not primarily associated with the specific skeletal damage characteristic of fluorides. For example, sulfides can affect the respiratory system, nitrates can lead to methemoglobinemia, and chlorides are primarily involved in electrolyte balance. None of these have the same pronounced effect on skeletal development as fluorides.