Laburnum, also known as golden chain, is a commonly grown ornamental plant that can be toxic to horses if ingested. The toxic compounds found in laburnum, known as cytisine and cytisinic acid, can cause serious harm to a horse’s nervous system, digestive system, and heart.

Ingesting even a small amount of laburnum can cause a horse to experience symptoms such as tremors, difficulty breathing, and seizures. In more severe cases, laburnum toxicity can lead to heart failure and death.

Horses may come into contact with laburnum while grazing or may be attracted to its sweet-tasting seeds and leaves. As a responsible horse owner, it is important to be aware of the dangers of laburnum and to take steps to prevent your horses from coming into contact with it. This may involve removing the plant from your property or supervising your horses closely while they are grazing.

If you suspect that your horse has ingested laburnum, it is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Treatment will depend on the amount of laburnum ingested and the symptoms shown, but may include medications to support the horse’s vital functions and help to alleviate symptoms.

In conclusion, laburnum is a highly toxic plant that can have serious consequences for horses if ingested. As a responsible horse owner, it is important to be aware of the dangers of laburnum and to take steps to prevent your horses from coming into contact with it. By doing so, you can help to ensure the health and wellbeing of your equine companions.