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Plants Toxic to Horses - Lamb's Quarters (or Pigweed)

Plants Toxic to Horses and Ponies - Lamb's Quarters

From Katherine Blocksdorf, About.com

Plants Toxic to Horses - Lamb's Quarters 2007 K. Blocksdorf
In some areas this plant is called pigweed or lamb's quarters. The plant I've photographed here is what we call lamb's quarters. It has smooth, light colored leaves and a woody red stem. The 'flower' looks rather like small pale green cauliflower cluster.

A horse would have to eat a large quantity of lamb's quarters for the toxin to take effect. Unless there is no other feed available it is unlikely a horse will eat this plant.

If a horse consumes a large quantity of lamb's quarters symptoms may include:

  • weakness
  • lack coordination
  • respiratory distress
  • coma
  • kidney failure

Resources: Indiana Plants Poisonous to Livestock and Pets Cooperative Extension Service, Purdue University

If you suspect poisoning from any plant or substance call your veterinarian immediately.

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