Page 812 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Poisoning by privet usually occurs when horses and ponies eat garden hedges or gain access

to compost heaps containing hedge clippings.
VetBooks.ir CLINICAL SIGNS

Clinical signs may include:

• intestinal disturbances
• a rapid pulse

• staggering

• paralysis

• death.

Treatment is symptomatic.

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum)

Linseed is grown commercially for its oil and also the fibrous stem. It contains a substance
called linamarin which releases a cyanide-containing substance after being digested. It is

destroyed by heat which is why linseed should always be thoroughly cooked before being fed
to horses.

CLINICAL SIGNS

These may include:
• salivation

• rapid pulse

• gasping

• staggering
• convulsions.

Death may occur very rapidly with no opportunity for treatment.