14/10/2025
🐴🍂 Acorn Toxicity in Horses: What You Need to Know! 🍂🐴
Did you know that acorns, while harmless to many animals, can be toxic to horses? As Autumn is here and acorns start to drop, it’s important to be aware of the risks they pose to horses.
2025 has been described as a mast year - unusually high numbers of acorns produced. This, together with high winds when acorns are falling, has meant we are seeing acorn toxicity this year. Some horses are more susceptible to acorn toxicity than others. Some horses are more inclined to eat them whilst others will avoid them due to their bitter taste.
🌰 Why Are Acorns Toxic to Horses?
Acorns contain tannins, which can be harmful when consumed in large quantities. These tannins cause irritation to the digestive system and can lead to colic, kidney damage, or even death in severe cases.
🔍 Signs of Acorn Poisoning can include:
Acorn husks in droppings
Colic (abdominal pain)
Diarrhoea (sometimes containing blood)
Loss of appetite
Lethargy
Excessive drinking and urination
🚫 How to Protect Your Horse:
Remove Acorns: Keep pastures and fields free of acorns, especially if you have oak trees nearby. Remove horses from paddocks where there are acorns, fence off areas around oaks.
Provide alternative forage: to discourage horses from eating acorns.
Early Intervention: If you suspect your horse has ingested acorns, contact your vet immediately for advice and treatment.
Remember: Prevention is key! Let’s keep our horses safe and healthy this Autumn! 🍂🐴💚