Are Palm Tree Seeds Poisonous to Horses

There are more than 2,500 species of palm trees. Some of these species are toxic and harmful to horses. For example, the Sago Palm and the Fern Palm are toxic and 1-2 seeds can be fatal to a horse. However, not all palm tree seeds are poisonous to horses.

  1. History

    • The Date Palm Tree seeds, also known as "dates," have been around as early as 6000 B.C. in the Middle East. Dates have been fed to horses and other animals in the Sahara.

    Consideration

    • Dates are a nutritional fruit. Every 100grams of the fruit contain; 280 kcal of energy, 75 grams of carbohydrates, 63 grams of sugar, 8 grams of fiber, 0.4 grams of fat, 2.5 grams of protein, 21 grams of water, and 0.4 milligrams of vitamin C.

    Description

    • Palm tree fruit are mostly oval in shape and are bright red and bright yellow in color with a small seed on the inside. Different types of palm trees will produce different types of seeds.

    Dangers

    • The toxic attribute Cycasin (i.e. Sago Palm and Fern Palm), a species of Cycas and Zamia is a member of the family Cycadaceae. These two palms have been known to cause vomiting, liver failure and death in animals.

    Prevention

    • Contact your local poison control office or your local veterinarian for information if you think your horse has ingested seeds that may be harmful.

    Professional Information

    • Dr. David Pugh, board-certified nutritionist stated, that horses need protein and vitamin C to help the immune system function in older horses.