This common herb is harmful to rabbits but useful to animals. A zookeeper in Washington state, for example, plants fireweed alongside her bunnies. Fireweed has also been linked to brain injury in horses. Look for indicators of fireweed consumption in your horses, such as aimless roaming, pushing against trees, gates, fences, and even convulsions. There are several lists of rabbit and horse toxic plants, including buttercups and apple pips.
Amber O’Dell-Andersen is a rabbit and fireweed farmer.
Amber O’Dell-Andersen began farming after graduating from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. She produces layer hens all year, turkeys and broilers, and plants a variety of veggies. She raises bunnies in her basement when it’s too chilly to work outdoors.
Plants to avoid if you have pets or livestock
The majority of typical houseplants are harmful to rabbits, however, there are a few exceptions. Rabbits should not be permitted into rooms where houseplants are cultivated, so keep them up high. If you must have houseplants, cut off any dropping leaves so rabbits cannot get to them. Some plants to keep rabbits away from are listed below.
Tulips are lovely spring flowers, but their bulbs are poisonous to grazing animals. They are not only harmful to rabbits and other pets, but they are also irritating to people. Tulips frighten many gardeners because they irritate their skin. Tulip bulbs, despite their appearance, may cause dermatitis in people.
Chrysanthemums – The plant’s stems and leaves contain a toxin that may induce vomiting and diarrhea in animals. Hydrangeas, daffodils, and daffodils are among typical garden plants that are poisonous to dogs. These plants should also be avoided by dogs. Dogs can eat daffodil leaves and buds, so keep your dog away from them.
Fortunately, there are several plants that rabbits will avoid. Rabbits are not only repulsed by weeds but they are also drawn to soft growth. Rabbits eat a variety of plants, including daffodils and daisies, so it’s best to avoid them as much as possible. These plants are also difficult to cultivate in gardens with other animals.
Fireweed toxicity symptoms in rabbits
If you believe your rabbits are consuming fireweed, you should be aware of the warning indications. Incoordination, a quick pulse, and a high respiratory rate are among the most prominent symptoms. Your rabbit might vomit, collapse, or go into a coma. Postmortem findings might include severe pulmonary congestion, bleeding, and death. However, atropine medication may help reduce the symptoms to some degree.
Fireweed is a tall magenta flowering plant found in grasslands and streams. They are a bothersome plant that may be harmful to rabbits and other animals. The tall, thin leaves of fireweed are very poisonous to animals and may cause diarrhea and vomiting. Fireweed poisoning symptoms in rabbits may not be immediately apparent, and your animal may be afflicted for months before displaying any indications.
In Australia, fireweed is a common plant. It grows in highly grazed pasturelands and may spread to bushland after a fire. It is also found on roadside verges. Fireweed may be found as far north as Noosa in southeast Queensland. It’s also been seen on the Bruce Highway and the Sunshine Motorway. Fireweed has also been discovered in New South Wales Western Slopes and Northern Tablelands. Fireweed is becoming increasingly common in Victoria.
Non-toxic substitutes for fireweed
Fireweed is a plant that grows in pastures. Rabbits, deer, and horses are all poisoned by it. Those concerned about the plant’s impact on livestock can use non-toxic alternatives. Its blossoms yield honey, and its branches look like wild asparagus. Humans are not poisoned by the stalks, although they may be bitter. Rabbits also like eating the hare’s diet, which includes grass, celery, and lush green vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, and cabbage.
Climbing roses are another excellent substitute for fireweed. Rabbits may consume the spines and hips. Pasque flower is another excellent option. Another non-toxic plant is Canterbury bells. They may be fed in modest amounts. Winter Heath is a non-toxic alternative to fireweed for rabbits, however, it is not widely available in pet shops. Feedable plants include hollyhock, geranium, and thin-leaved sunflower.
Ligustrum, a variety of species, and golden chain trees are also non-toxic to rabbits. Cucurbitacins, found in several of these plants, may induce stomach pains. Rabbits can also eat pumpkin leaves, cucumber leaves, and purple toadflax. Other sorts of vegetation that rabbits may consume include carrot tops and laurel leaves.
Jimsonweed, another common weed, contains the poisonous chemical hypericin. This herb is poisonous when both fresh and dried. Photosensitization symptoms include lack of appetite, incoordination, and gastrointestinal discomfort. If the animals are not treated, they may acquire the liver disease. The removal of the weed from the rabbit’s habitat, shielding from sunshine, and the injection of steroids to decrease inflammation are all treatments for this poisoning. Avoid this plant in the early spring and on weak rangelands.
