AT A GLANCE
Are spruces dangerous for horses?
Spruce trees are slightly toxic to horses because they contain tannins and essential oils such as turpentine. Poisoning can cause, among other things, salivation, reddened mucous membranes, coordination disorders and inflammation in the digestive tract.
Is spruce dangerous for horses?
Like other conifers, the Sprucetannins. These are slightly toxic to horses. This means that poisoning only occurs when the ungulates ingest large amounts of it. In addition, the spruce tree is known for its essential oils known, especially that turpentine oil. This can also cause symptoms of poisoning in horses. Not to mention that Christmas trees are often included pesticides and varnishes treated, which can also harm the animals.
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For these reasons, spruces represent horses no useful work material represent.
What symptoms of poisoning can occur?
Excessive consumption of spruce components can lead to poisoning in horses, which is usually noticeable through the following symptoms:
- increased salivation
- reddened mucous membranes
- coordinative disorders
In addition, the phenolic compounds and essential oils irritate the digestive tract. You can inflammation in the stomach and intestines as well as colic and constipation. Damage to the liver and kidneys as well as shortness of breath due to narrowing of the airways cannot be ruled out either.
In pregnant mares, the tannins contained in spruce run the risk of abortions and miscarriages.
Tip
Spruce suitable for barn and fence construction
The spruce is unsuitable for nibbling for the horse. However, the situation is different with regard to stable and fence construction. When the spruce wood has dried well, you can use the horse stable or the fencing of the paddock with a clear conscience. The essential oils evaporate over time, so they no longer pose a threat.
