Every year, 50 horses in Belgium die from maple poisoning, a condition that has been increasingly prevalent since 2000. On April 18, 2025, it’s crucial to understand the dangers associated with this plant and its toxic effects on our equine friends. The following information will help you stay informed about this serious issue.
- Jaarlijks sterven 50 paarden door esdoornvergiftiging
- Esdoorn veroorzaakt spieraandoening bij paarden
- Symptomen: trillingen en zwakte in de benen
- Drie kwart van de zieke paarden sterft binnen 72 uur
- Zaden en bladeren bevatten giftige stof
- Vergiftiging komt vooral voor in herfst en lente
What Should Horse Owners Know About Maple Poisoning in Belgium?
Maple poisoning occurs when horses consume seeds or leaves from the maple tree, particularly during late autumn or early spring when pastures are sparse. Since its identification as a threat in 2010, awareness has grown regarding its impact on horse health. Key points include:
- The toxic substance can cause severe muscle disorders in horses.
- Affected horses may exhibit trembling and weakness within hours of ingestion.
- If untreated, approximately 75% of affected horses could die within three days.
The future looks uncertain for many horse owners faced with this risk. It’s essential to remain proactive—monitor your pastures and educate fellow equestrians about the dangers of maple poisoning. Together, we can safeguard our beloved horses from this preventable tragedy.
