Sudan Grass / Hybrid Sudan
- Scientific Name:
- Sorhum vulgare var. sudanesis
- Family:
- Gramineae
- Where Found:
- Found in central and southern great plains of North America, but can be grown throughout most of North America
- Toxicity:
- Toxic to Horses
- Toxic Principles:
- Cyanogenic glycosides, nitrates
- Clinical Signs:
- The plant can accumulate toxic concentrations of the poisonous compounds. Poisonings typically occur during periods of high rainfall amounts, after grazing on the rapidly growing young green plants for periods of one week to six months, with an average of 8 weeks. Clinical effects include a loss of nerve function to the hind legs and bladder, stumbling when forced to move, progressing to complete paralysis of the hind limbs. Affected animals may be unable to go backwards (back up); bladder paralysis can result in over filling and constant dribbling of urine, which can in turn lead to scalding of the hind legs in mares and/or bladder infection. Poisonings may also be associated with fetal deformities or fetal death.
If your pet ingested this plant, contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.*
* A $65 consultation fee may apply.
