However, experimental feedings have shown that poisoning does not always follow buckeye consumption. Affected animals exhibit depression, incoordination, twitching, paralysis, inflammation of mucous membranes, and vomiting. Colic has also been reported in poisoned horses. Treated animals usually survive. In the spring, while waiting for other forage to become available, animals should not be allowed to graze in woodland pastures where there are buckeye sprouts.
Red maple is a large native tree found in moist woodlands and swamps throughout Ohio.
Leaves are opposite, generally triangular with three or five lobes, coarsely toothed, and silvery white beneath. Poisonings result from consumption of wilted leaves and have only been reported for horses. Toxicity is most prevalent from June through October, but may be greatest in autumn foliage. Dried leaves are reported to remain toxic for 30 days. The cause of toxicity is not known.