Ragwort
Plant description:
Flat rosette of tough, dark green, irregular leaves and closely packed heads of small, yellow, daisy-like flowers present in summertime. Seeds are downy for wind distribution.
Animal species affected:
Horses and cattle mainly. Sheep, goats, poultry and pigs can also be affected but usually to a lesser extent.
Symptoms of poisoning:
Rapid onset signs (heavily contaminated pasture) - dull, weak, colic, yellow eyes and gums, nervous signs, death
Slow onset signs (chronic exposure) - loss of condition, loss of appetite, constipation, decreased milk production, depression, loss of co-ordination when walking, dark urine, drowsiness.
Treatment:
Remove from source. Feed a highly-digestible diet with low protein, high energy. Keep in safe, flat paddocks while they are weak. Provide easy access to food and water.
