Mistletoe and Horses - Ask Extension
I have a downed oak tree with mistletoe in my horse pasture. How dangerous is it for my horses to have access to the mistletoe?
Knowledgebase
Mistletoe and Horses #891092
Asked December 30, 2024, 12:50 AM EST
I have a downed oak tree with mistletoe in my horse pasture. How dangerous is it for my horses to have access to the mistletoe?
Jackson County Oregon
Expert Response
Greetings,
Thank you for reaching out. It is recommended that you remove the mistletoe or fence off the area from your horses. While livestock may not be interested in eating it, it is toxic and horses have been poisoned.
The Total Equine Veterinary Association reports:
Mistletoe and holly can be toxic to horses. The berries are most toxic, but all parts or the plant contain toxins. In addition, the pointed leaves can cause injury. The plants contain several toxins that cause symptoms of colic, difficulty breathing, slow heart rate and collapse, erratic behavior, tremors and seizures.
Thank you for reaching out. It is recommended that you remove the mistletoe or fence off the area from your horses. While livestock may not be interested in eating it, it is toxic and horses have been poisoned.
The Total Equine Veterinary Association reports:
Mistletoe and holly can be toxic to horses. The berries are most toxic, but all parts or the plant contain toxins. In addition, the pointed leaves can cause injury. The plants contain several toxins that cause symptoms of colic, difficulty breathing, slow heart rate and collapse, erratic behavior, tremors and seizures.
