CAN HORSES EAT POTATOES?
Potatoes belong to a group of perennial plants known as NIghtshade. These plants contain a substance known as Solanine. Solanine is highly poisonous and can have irreversible adverse effects on the horse. The content is found in the leaves, stem and some traces are located in the tubers. For this reason, it is hazardous to feed potatoes to horses. Solanine poisoning affects the nervous and digestive systems of the horse.
Usually, Solanine is destroyed by heat so cooking the potatoes helps eliminate this toxic compound. This is what makes them edible for humans.
When consumed in large quantities, Solanine eventually leads to cardiac arrest, which is fatal and leads to the death of the horse. The initial symptoms of ingestion of Solanine are untamed excitement which followed by depression-like signs. Other signs exhibited include a much slower heart rate, excess longing for water to quench their thirst and difficulty in respiration. Colic, poor coordination and weakness in the muscle tissue will occur in later stages.
When exposed to the glycoalkaloids over a long period, the consistency of the intestinal wall changes. The ratio of the cell membranes is distorted, leading to chronic diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Do cooked potatoes have any effect on horses?
Since cooking potatoes destroys Solanine, it might render them a little safer for the horse. However, if bought from the store, they might contain harmful preservatives. These might cause problems to its digestive system. Too much salt might also result to gastric problems for the horse.
What precautions should be taken when a horse ingests potatoes?
One should first determine the amount consumed. Due to its huge body a horse might tolerate a small amount and only exhibit mild stomach upsets. sometimes this may not be detected early enough or a misdiagnosis may happen. In such instances it is advised to seek the counsel of a professional. However, if large quantities were consumed, they might start showing signs of irritation. Consider administering activated charcoal and neostigmine. If symptoms persist, contact a veterinary as soon as possible.
What measures should one take to prevent ingestion of potatoes?
Horses will not usually eat potatoes on their own because of their repulsive taste. However if the potatoes and other nightshade weeds are growing or have been mixed with grass or hay, they might unknowingly eat them or even when food is scarce. Grazing fields are especially potential areas of this kind of poisoning.
Strictly observe the food they consume and where they graze or spend their time. Weed frequently to eliminate any possibility of poisonous plants mixing with their grass. One may also seek for management of grazing fields. Always make sure that your horse has a good supply of healthy foods, including hay and other nutrients.
What is the conclusion?
Potatoes contain a very harmful toxin called Solanine. This, when consumed, is fatal for the horse. Strict measures should be enacted to ensure that potatoes are never fed to horses.