It’s that time again, Monday morning and it’s time to learn about yet another plant your horse can’t eat. Today we’ll take a closer look at the unassuming and delicately pretty Crotalaria.
A Little About Crotalaria
Fabaceae Crotalaria is Crotalaria, also commonly called Rattlepod, Rattlebox, Sesbane, Coffeebean, Bladderpod & Danglepod. This is a tall annual with bold yellow or red flowers which grow in showy clusters and long, flat seed pods which rattle when dry.
How Dangerous Is It?
Not palatable to horses this plant when fresh is only really a concern during drought conditions. It’s extreme toxicity to equines & the fact it’s been known to be incorporated into hay means it is a plant every horse owner should be aware of. Crotalaria contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver failure from something called “walking disease” or “sleepy staggers”.
All parts of this plant are toxic and can be fatal to equines.
What To Look For
You know your animal the best, so you should know when something is amiss. Crotalaria toxicity symptoms can include excessive yawning, weakness, jaundice, loss of appetite, loss of coordination & strange chewing motions.
Learn More
Be sure to check out the Crotalaria page to learn more about the plant and while you are at it why not check out more toxic plants?
*It should be noted that I’m not a veterinarian. This information is written specifically for horses and should be used for reference purposes only. If you think your horse has eaten something toxic call your vet right away.