| Term | Deadly nightshade |
| Category | Herbs |
| Definition | Deadly nightshade is a highly toxic wild plant from the nightshade family. It is not suitable as a forage plant for horses. |
| Effects & Risks | Deadly nightshade contains tropane alkaloids such as atropine and scopolamine. These affect the nervous system and can cause symptoms including tachycardia, restlessness, dilated pupils, digestive issues, and coordination problems. |
| Usage | Deadly nightshade has no place in horse feeding. Plants found on pastures, along fences, or within reach should be correctly identified and removed. |
| Fresh or dried? | Both fresh and dried plant parts are toxic. Berries and plant residue in hay can also be dangerous and should not be fed. |
| Important to know | Possible signs of poisoning include restlessness, dry mucous membranes, severely dilated pupils, rapid heartbeat, staggering, seizures, and circulatory problems. If ingestion is suspected, immediate veterinary assistance is required. |
| Related terms | Toxic plants · Nightshade family · Atropine · Datura · Poisoning |
You might also be interested in this
Be inspired and find practical tips on the care, equipment, and health of your horse.
Wild carrot is considered safe for horses, but must be reliably distinguished from poisonous umbellifers like hemlock.
Brownray knapweed (Centaurea jacea)
Brown knapweed is considered unproblematic for horses in normal amounts and can be a component of species-rich meadows and hay.
White clover (Trifolium repens)
White clover can be part of a horse pasture, but due to its high nutrient content, it should not dominate the vegetation.
Share:
Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)
Common Chickweed (Stellaria media)