09/11/2022
With all this stormy and windy weather, please keep an eye out for sycamore seeds, sometimes known as helicopters, in your fields! There has been a bumper crop this year, which is not great news for our four-legged friends.
Atypical myopathy is a seasonal disease caused by toxin hypoglycin A, found in sycamore seeds, leaves and seedlings from the sycamore tree.
Not all trees have the same level of toxin, and it can vary from year to year. So it's important to stay cautious; just because your horse has grazed in a field with a sycamore tree for years, we still need to be aware. It's important to remember that the seeds can travel on the wind for quite a distance, so check your pasture daily. Unfortunately, the disease can progress very quickly and is frequently fatal, so it's important to be vigilant!
How can we reduce the risk of sycamore poisoning?
🍃 Identify the sycamore trees
🍃 Avoid turning out in a field where sycamore seeds are landing, or fence off and clean up seeds prior to turn out. You may need to reduce time at pasture and increase stabling during this risk period.
🍃 Supplementary feeding whilst at pasture is advised, but you may need advice from your Vet or nutritionist if your horse is overweight.
🍃 Monitor your horse closely for signs of illness.
What are the signs of sycamore poisoning?
🔴 Weakness of stiffness, reluctance to walk
🔴 Depression or dullness
🔴 Muscle trembling and soreness
🔴 Colic symptoms
🔴Dark red or brown urine
🔴In severe cases, horses are unable to stand
If you are worried about your horse, please contact your Veterinary Surgeon!