A Synopsis of the Problem
There have been a not-inconsiderable number of papers published in
scientific and professional journals on equines and toxic plants. This website
is a result of an extensive literature search in order to bring you the most important and
relevant information. Since the space here is limited, the concentration will be
on the most
pertinent topics, which are divided into the following links (individual pages) to
facilitate speed and utility for the reader.
What sets equines apart from other grazing animals
when it comes to grazing and toxic plants? Why should we treat and manage them differently from other livestock?
Some of the common beliefs about horses, grazing, and toxic plants that
may lead to mismanagement of equine diets and pastures, plants, and
weeds.
Behavioral and physiological factors in equines that may
contribute to or limit the occurrence of poisoning by plants.
Factors within plants that may be responsible for their
toxicity as individuals or groups.
Other variables, including season, weather, and soils, that may contribute to the toxicity of a plant or group of plants.
Some of the more well-known physical conditions and
illnesses that are the result of ingestion of or exposure to toxic plants by
equines.
General symptoms (behavioral & physiological) in
equines that may be signals that the animal is undergoing a reaction to a toxic
plant. These may be short-term or long-term effects.
There are relatively few of these, depending upon the plant toxin. Your
veterinarian should be your primary source of treatment and information, but you
will find here the most common treatments & antidotes.
Many horse owners and land owners are not very familiar with the weeds in
their pastures, and often consider all 'weeds' to be dangerous to equines. This
section is an attempt to clarify the place of weeds in the problem of
plant toxicity and
equines.
If all of the previous information is intimidating and overwhelming, don't
despair! There are any number of pasture management practices that can greatly
diminish the risks to your equines from toxic plants. We will list the most
common and most easily accomplished of these. Other resources available can give
you greater detail; some of them are mentioned in the
bibliography and links
page.
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