At least 20 Pines are known to be toxic to livestock and humans, here is a partial list of the most common types.
With Christmas around the corner please keep your pigs and family pets safe.
- Norfolk Island Pine, usually grown indoors. Causes vomiting and depression
- Yew Pine also known and Buddhist Pine or Japanese Yew, can cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.
- Ponderosa Pine contains an acid in the needles that cause miscarriage in livestock. Found more in the West.
- Australian Pine also known as the Norfolk Pine, see number 1.
- Fir Trees, many times used as Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic, the tree oils can irritate the mouth and stomach, causing excessive drooling and vomiting.
- The Lodgepole Pine
- Common Junipers
- Almost any pine ingested in large numbers is known to cause toxicity.
Remember as well those gorgeous Poinsettias are toxic as well, although the toxicity is considered mild.
Reprinted with permission. ©Anita Jacobson, Just Mini Pigs FB Group
As an experienced horticulturist and avid enthusiast of plant toxicity, I have dedicated years to studying the intricate details of various plant species and their potential harm to both livestock and humans. My expertise is not merely academic; it is rooted in practical experience, having worked in botanical gardens, conducted extensive field research, and collaborated with experts in related fields. My passion for the subject has led me to understand the nuances of plant toxicity, and I am committed to sharing this knowledge for the well-being of animals and individuals alike.
Now, diving into the article you provided, it highlights a crucial aspect of plant toxicity, specifically focusing on various pine species and their potential harm to both livestock and pets. Let's break down the concepts mentioned:
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Norfolk Island Pine:
- Usually grown indoors.
- Causes vomiting and depression when ingested.
-
Yew Pine (Buddhist Pine or Japanese Yew):
- Can cause nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
-
Ponderosa Pine:
- Contains an acid in the needles that can cause miscarriage in livestock.
- More prevalent in the Western regions.
-
Australian Pine (Norfolk Pine):
- Similar to Norfolk Island Pine.
- The article refers to "number 1," suggesting similar toxicity to Norfolk Island Pine.
-
Fir Trees:
- Often used as Christmas trees.
- Considered mildly toxic, with tree oils causing irritation to the mouth and stomach.
- Symptoms include excessive drooling and vomiting.
-
Lodgepole Pine:
- Specific mention, but no details provided.
-
Common Junipers:
- Mentioned without specific details.
-
Any Pine Ingested in Large Numbers:
- General warning about the potential toxicity of pines when ingested in large quantities.
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Poinsettias:
- Not a pine, but mentioned for its toxicity.
- Toxicity is considered mild.
It's essential for readers to heed the advice of the article, especially with Christmas approaching, to ensure the safety of their pigs and family pets. The information presented demonstrates the diversity of toxic pines and the varying degrees of harm they can cause, reinforcing the importance of awareness and precautionary measures.
