Is Castor Bean Toxic to Horses?
Yes — castor bean is toxic to horses.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Toxic parts
Seeds (most toxic)
Toxic compound
Ricin
What to do now
- Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to.
- Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your horse ate.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
Good to know
Castor beans contain ricin. Chewed seeds can cause severe bloody vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration and death.
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Frequently asked questions
Is castor bean toxic to horses?
Yes — castor bean is toxic to horses. Castor beans contain ricin. Chewed seeds can cause severe bloody vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration and death.
What are the symptoms of castor bean poisoning in horses?
Vomiting. Diarrhea. Drooling. Reduced appetite.
What should I do if my horse ate castor bean?
Call your vet or a pet poison control line immediately — don't wait for symptoms. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to. Bring the plant, label or packaging with you so the vet knows exactly what your horse ate. Note roughly how much was eaten and when.
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