Native Plants

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Sunday - October 26, 2008

From: Tehuacana, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Poisonous Plants
Title: Alpacas poisoned in pasture in Texas
Answered by: Barbara Medford

QUESTION:

Two of my alpacas were poisoned by something growing in two of my pastures. One of the suspects is cussus trifoliata, aka, cow itch vine, sorrelvine. I have searched diligently and can find no reference to this plant being toxic other than to cause itching. Is it possible an element of this vine could be toxic to camelids? The effects came within 24 hours of being let into the pastures and caused staggering, incoordination, trembling. The male was smaller and sicker. It took three injections from the vet and about two days before basic recovery. Any help or suggestions you can offer will be appreciated.

ANSWER: