Cherry laurel is an attractive plant externally. Sheep might also be tempted to chew on the pretty leaves. If you are wondering whether the laurel cherry is safe for sheep or whether it is poisonous, you will get the clear answer in this article.
Is cherry laurel poisonous to sheep?
Cherry laurel is poisonous to sheep because the plant has leaves and seeds with a high concentration of prussic acid containing prunasin. Poisoning can have fatal effects on sheep, causing symptoms such as drooling, irritation, gastrointestinal problems and difficulty breathing.
Is cherry laurel poisonous to sheep?
Cherry laurel is poisonous to sheep. The leaves and seeds in particular have ahigh concentration of prussic acid-containing prunasin. For example, if a sheep intensively chews the leaves of the poisonous plant, hydrogen cyanide is released in the stomach - resulting in symptoms of poisoning.
By the way: The laurel cherry is not only poisonous for sheep, but also for almost all other animals as well as for us humans. All parts of the plant contain the toxin, even the fruits - despite their sweet aroma.
How does cherry laurel poisoning manifest itself in sheep?
Poisoning with cherry laurel in sheep can be manifested in particular by the followingSymptoms:
- Salivation
- Irritation of the mucous membranes
- Stomach/intestinal problems (especially diarrhea, possibly bloody)
- Breathing problems
Severe poisoning caused by excessive consumption of cherry laurel can lead tofatal paralysis of the respiratory center.
What to do if sheep have eaten cherry laurel?
If your sheep have eaten cherry laurel, you shouldcall a veterinarian immediately. Do this even if the animals do not yet show any signs of poisoning.
Give the sheep plenty of water to drink until the vet shows upActivated carbon can also help as it binds toxins. In order to counteract acute poisoning, relatively large quantities of it are required (approximately a man's fist). But do not give it if you are unsure.
Attention: Of course, first aid measures do not replace the immediate intervention of a veterinarian!
Tip
Keep sheep away from cherry laurel
Ideally, sheep have no chance of becoming poisoned with cherry laurel. Keep animals away from this and other poisonous plants. Do not plant cherry laurels in pasture. You should also never feed any of the laurel cherry to your furry friend.
