PlantBetter

Plants dangerous to horses

Pasture weeds and hedge clippings cause most horse poisonings. Never feed garden clippings.

Horses

Warning signs: Colic, depression, yellow gums, sweating, incoordination, sudden death (yew).

If you suspect poisoning: remove any plant material, keep a sample, and call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 immediately.

13 plants to keep away from horses

  • Yew

    Severe

    Taxine alkaloids cause sudden heart failure.

  • Ragwort

    Severe

    Pyrrolizidine alkaloids cause cumulative, irreversible liver damage.

  • Red maple (wilted leaves)

    Severe

    Destroys red blood cells, causing severe anemia.

  • Oleander

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides disrupt heart rhythm; can be fatal in small amounts.

  • Foxglove

    Severe

    Cardiac glycosides cause heart arrhythmia and collapse.

  • Bracken fern

    Severe

    Causes vitamin B1 deficiency and bone marrow damage over time.

  • Water & poison hemlock

    Severe

    Violent seizures and respiratory failure; often fatal.

  • Deadly nightshade

    Severe

    Tropane alkaloids cause dilated pupils, rapid heart rate and seizures.

  • Azalea & rhododendron

    Severe

    Grayanotoxins cause vomiting, weakness, abnormal heart rhythm.

  • Avocado (leaves, pit, skin)

    Severe

    Persin causes heart damage and respiratory distress.

  • Oak (acorns & young leaves)

    Moderate

    Tannins cause kidney damage and colic.

  • Buttercup

    Moderate

    Blistering of the mouth, drooling and colic.

  • Privet

    Moderate

    Digestive upset, weakness and incoordination.

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General information only, not veterinary advice. Toxicity varies with the amount eaten and the animal's size.