08/10/2025
ACORNS
2025 has produced a bumper crop of acorns across the country and, in this area in particular, we have a significant number of oak trees compared to other regions in the UK. So what does this mean for horse owners?
Acorns contain tannins that, when ingested by horses, produce toxins that can be poisonous causing gut, liver and kidney issues. Horses typically show signs of colic, lethargy, fever, loss of appetite and/or diarrhoea. Most horses dislike the bitter taste of acorns but may be tempted to eat them at this time of year, as paddocks become more sparse. Some horses can develop a liking for acorns and, since each individual will have a different tolerance level, care should be exercised when turning out your horse in paddocks surrounded by oak trees at this time of year.
What you can do to protect against acorn poisoning:
1. Check your horse's droppings for acorn husks.
2. Collect freshly fallen acorns daily, particularly after fresh winds.
3. Temporarily fence off areas where fallen acorns are dense.
3. Provide good quality forage away from the oak trees.
3. Monitor your horse's health carefully and call your vet urgently if you are concerned about your horse's welfare.
