AT A GLANCE
Is gorse poisonous to horses?
Gorse is toxic to horses because it contains alkaloids that are toxic when in contact with saliva. Poisoning manifests itself through symptoms such as salivation, nausea, restlessness or paralysis. Therefore, do not plant gorse near your horses.
Can gorse poison horses?
Yes, gorse is poisonous to horses. The bush contains alkaloids. These are organic compounds that can harm both animals and humans. The poison works as soon as the alkaloids meet saliva. It is therefore essential to avoid horses licking or chewing on gorse. Of course, the animals should not swallow any plant parts.
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Our advice: Since horses are herbivores, it cannot be ruled out that they would try nibbling on gorse bushes. Plant So you better not gorse in the pasture.
What are the symptoms of poisoning?
Poisonous are mainly the broom leaves and seeds. Five to ten of the latter are enough to signs of intoxication trigger. These can look like this:
- increased salivation
- Vomiting and diarrhea as a result of nausea
- excitement and restlessness
- signs of paralysis
- Constipation to the point of intestinal obstruction
- cardiovascular problems (loss of consciousness)
- premature labor in pregnant mares
If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your horse, please call one immediately vet.
Tip
Plant gorse on adjacent meadows instead?
On the pasture, gorse is absolutely taboo. But couldn't you at least plant it in an adjacent meadow? It is better to completely avoid the legumes and other plants that are harmful to horses in the vicinity of your horses. The risk of poisoning is simply too high for the herbivores.