Horses spend most of the day grazing, and once in a while, they are bound to encounter toxic plants. If the pasture is overgrazed, they are especially vulnerable to nibbling on something they should not eat. Learning to identify common toxic plants and removing them from your pasture can help keep your horse safe. You can also support overall equine health by staying prepared with appropriate treatments and supplies,s such as those found in the PetMeds horse medications category.
Alsike Clover White and Red Clover
Clover is a good source of protein and fiber, but some varieties can pose a mild health risk to horses. Alsike clover has pink and white flowers. If your horse eats a large amount in one sitting or consumes it regularly over time, they may be at risk for liver disease. It can also cause photosensitization, or sensitivity to sunlight, leading to blisters on unpigmented areas of skin such as your horse’s nose and ears.
Red and white clover are not toxic to horses, but they can be affected by black patch fungus, which causes horses to drool excessively.
Buttercup
Buttercups are mildly toxic. They contain a toxin called protoanemonin that irritates the gastrointestinal system and causes drooling when your horse consumes the leaves and flowers. If your horse eats a large amount, they can develop more severe symptoms such as convulsions and paralysis. In rare cases, horses can die from buttercup toxicity.
If you notice digestive upset after pasture exposure, it may help to review treatment options within the horse digestive aids category while you contact your veterinarian.
Milkweed
Milkweed is highly toxic to horses. It causes neurological issues such as seizures and coma, and in severe cases, es it can lead to death. Fortunately, it is easy to recognize the tall plants, and the leaves ooze a bitter sap that discourages most horses from eating them.
Prunus Pitted Fruit Trees
Fruit trees in the Prunus family pose a danger to horses. Black choke, and pin cherry trees contain extremely toxic levels of cyanide in the bark, twigs, seeds, and leaves. Peach, apricot, and plum trees are also members of the Prunus family and should be kept out of reach of grazing horses.
Oak Trees and Acorns
Oak trees produce leaves and acorns that contain tannins, which can cause kidney and liver damage in horses. Young leaves and green acorns are the most toxic.
Acorn poisoning is relatively uncommon in horses, even though oak trees grow throughout much of the United States. Some horses eat acorns regularly without any ill effects, while others are very sensitive to the tannins. Because acorn poisoning can be fatal, it is wise to monitor your horse around oak trees and limit exposure if they seem to develop a taste for them.
Yew
Ornamental yew shrubs are highly toxic to horses, even in small amounts. Fortunately, they are very bitter, and most horses will avoid eating them unless there is little else available to forage.
Nightshade Plants
All plants in the nightshade family are toxic to horses. They contain a chemical compound called solanine that causes colic, muscle twitching, weakness, and in severe cases, death.
Potatoes, eggplants, and tomatoes are all part of the nightshade family, and no part of these plants should be given to horses. Even the parts commonly eaten by people can be dangerous for equines. Deadly nightshade and black nightshade are especially toxic. They are often identified by their small white or purple flowers and clusters of dark berries.
Symptoms such as colic or weakness should be taken seriously. Products found in the horse category may help support your horse while waiting for veterinary care.
What To Do If Your Horse Eats A Toxic Plant
If you suspect your horse has eaten something toxic, contact your equine veterinarian right away. Quick action can make a significant difference in preventing serious complications and protecting your horse’s health.
