Back on track, it’s Monday and I’ve got another one of those pesky plants that hate your horse. Today’s plant is common, even though it has a very scientific sounding name, the Dieffenbachia.
A Little About Dieffenbachias
Araceae is also called Charming Dieffenbachia and Dumb Cane. This is a perennial tropical plant with a tough, slightly woody stem. Leaves are large, robust, pointed and marbled with white and/or yellow. Flowers grow in a spadix surrounded by a spathe.
How Dangerous Is It?
This is an ornamental plant and not one that horses will often come into contact with. However they are often found in landscaping and gardens and toxic enough to be noted. They contain calcium oxalate crystals which can irritate upon physical contact.
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. Dieffenbachia toxicity symptoms include swelling & distress in the mouth and throat area and gastrointestinal upset.
Learn More
Be sure to check out the Dieffenbachia 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.