The lesion, resulting from ergotism may be distinguished from those of foot-and-mouth disease by the lack of eruptions in the mouth and by the location of the disease at the tips of the ears, end of the tail, or upon the lower part of the legs, usually below the knees or hocks.
"Special Report on Diseases of Cattle"
U.S. Department of Agriculture J.R. Mohler
When hay affected with ergot is fed to animals it is productive of a characteristic and serious affection or poisoning known as ergotism.
"Special Report on Diseases of Cattle"
U.S. Department of Agriculture J.R. Mohler
Thus far the best-known examples of poisoning by the products of micro-organisms are botulism and ergotism.
"Food Poisoning"
Edwin Oakes Jordan