Plants Poisonous to Horses: An Australian Field Guide

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About Plants Poisonous to Horses

 
Plants Poisonous to Horses: An Australian Field Guide is designed for horse owners to help them prevent plant poisoning in their horses and make safer pasture and property decisions.

It brings together the “why” (risk factors, types of toxins and how poisoning happens) and the “what to do” (practical ways to reduce risk and exposure), alongside a comprehensive plant identification glossary and management guidance.

What the Guide covers

 

– Factors that influence the risk of plant poisoning (including conditions that increase exposure)

– Ways to reduce plant poisoning risk through property and pasture management

– Major toxin types found in plants and how they can affect horses

– Signs of poisoning that may be seen after ingestion of toxic plant material

– A comprehensive list of known toxic plants, including profiles with structure, growth habit, and identifying features

– Management notes to help deal with poisonous plants on properties

Why this guide matters

 
Many plants in Australia are potentially poisonous to horses, and understanding which toxic plants are present—and what conditions increase risk—will help horse owners keep their horses safe. The Guide supports better pasture management and landscaping decisions by building awareness of plant poisoning risks and practical prevention considerations for horse properties.

How to create a horse-safe property

 
Creating a horse-safe property matters because many plants that grow in Australia can be poisonous to horses and can create serious welfare and financial impacts for owners. Horses usually avoid toxic plants, but risk increases when pasture is poor, alternative forage is limited, or conditions change (e.g., drought or seasonal shifts).

To keep prevention simple:

– Do regular paddock inspections

– Maintain healthy pastures so weeds don’t dominate

– Stay alert for new or invasive plants before they spread

– Check hay and feed for contamination

– Avoid practices that accidentally increase exposure (e.g., leaving clippings where horses can reach them).

Download the guide for more information to make informed decisions about your property and horse safety.

Understanding plant toxins

 
Plant toxins are a natural chemical defence, and different toxin types can affect different body systems in horses (including the liver, heart, nervous system, metabolism, and skin).

Three major toxin groups are highlighted across many common poisonous plants:

1. Alkaloids (often linked to serious organ or nervous system effects)

2. Glycosides (including forms that can disrupt heart function or release cyanide), and

3. Mycotoxins (toxins produced by fungi on pasture grasses or stored feeds).

Because toxicity can vary with season, growth stage, and environmental stress, it helps to understand toxin basics before making pasture or landscaping decisions. Download the guide for deeper information about plant toxins and how they impact horses.