The changing leaves of fall paint the tree lines with regal reds, brilliant oranges, and stunning ambers, and are often a highlight of the season. But when these beautiful leaves start to fall they can pose a direct threat to our equine friends. Although horses do not typically consume fallen leaves with pastures offering limited grazing opportunities, and leaves able to flurry into water buckets it is important to be aware of the risks, and take steps to ensure your horse remains safe during this season.
Proper field management, tree removal, and monitoring your horses can greatly reduce the risk of your horses consuming toxic leaves and other vegetation. Although the list of toxic plants, and trees is extensive here are three commonly found tree types that are a potential threat to your horses this fall:
Cherry
Often planted for their pretty delicate flowers that pop up in spring and the tart sweet fruit that they produce – these trees are cyanide producers which can be potentially fatal to our equine friends when digested. The cyanide that these trees produce come in two forms – the first being the pit found in the center of the fruit they produce and it is also released in wilting leaves during their decomposition. Symptoms of poisoning from Cherry trees include heavy breathing, weakness, and convulsions.
Oak
With Oak trees often living for hundreds of years, providing great shade, and supporting wildlife with both food and refuge they are an attractive tree to have on your property. But these stunning big trees are producers of tannic acid. Tannic acid is found in both the leaves and acorns produced by the tree, and when digested can damage your horse’s kidneys and cause gastroenteritis.
Red Maple
Red Maples have a lot to offer with their bold colour, fast growing nature, and their ability to produce delicious syrup. However, their leaves are among the most toxic to horses as once digested the toxins will begin to destroy red blood cells and can cause further symptoms such as respiratory distress, jaundice, and an increased heart rate.
Remember: If you suspect your horse is suffering, and may have consumed fallen leaves, or other vegetation which contain toxins please contact your veterinarian immediately.