Survival depends on the amount of ragwort digested. Loss of Condition Lethargy General weakness Loss of appetite Diarrhoea or constipation. Ragwort will not be intentionally eaten by livestock, however it will be eaten in areas where food is scarce or where it cannot be avoided. A horse will not avoid hay containing ragwort it will quite happily continue eating. Some cases can be treated with antibiotics and steroids, unfortunately once clinical signs are present it is often too late, but there are a few measures that you can take to avoid the problem.
Check pasture throughout summer for signs ragwort and remove any weeds that are found.
Roots left in the ground can be killed by filling the whole with salt. Gloves should be worn at all times when pulling ragwort as it is poisonous. If ragwort is found checks will need to be repeated as it is a biennial plant. Cutting of the plant is not advised as this will encourage more rapid regrowth. All rights reserved.