PlantFunRed pea Toxic?
Seeds are the most toxic plant part, with toxic compound profiles varying across different Lathyrus species
Prolonged ingestion (weeks to months) causes progressive neurological damage, paralysis, and potential fatal outcomes in susceptible animals
Birds are classified as severely vulnerable to poisoning from this plant
FAQ
Is Red pea toxic to Humans?
No species-specific toxicity data recorded; related Lathyrus species cause lathyrism (permanent neurological damage) with prolonged high-volume intake (Low)
Is Red pea toxic to Cats?
No confirmed toxicity data reported; monitor for unusual symptoms and consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected (Low)
Is Red pea toxic to Dogs?
No confirmed toxicity data reported; seek immediate veterinary care after ingestion of large quantities (Low)
Is Red pea toxic to Horses?
Initial restlessness and skittishness after several weeks of exposure, followed by weakness, colic, uncoordinated gait, hindlimb paralysis, dyspnea after mild excitement, laryngeal stridor, difficulty swallowing, sweating, seizures, weak/arrhythmic pulse, nosebleeds, lip rashes, mane/withers hair loss, possible death by suffocation after months of exposure (Severe)
Toxicity Details
No species-specific toxicity data recorded; related Lathyrus species cause lathyrism (permanent neurological damage) with prolonged high-volume intake
No confirmed toxicity data reported; monitor for unusual symptoms and consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected
No confirmed toxicity data reported; seek immediate veterinary care after ingestion of large quantities
Initial restlessness and skittishness after several weeks of exposure, followed by weakness, colic, uncoordinated gait, hindlimb paralysis, dyspnea after mild excitement, laryngeal stridor, difficulty swallowing, sweating, seizures, weak/arrhythmic pulse, nosebleeds, lip rashes, mane/withers hair loss, possible death by suffocation after months of exposure
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Immediately remove all access to the plant and clear remaining plant material from the animal's mouth
- • Do not induce vomiting for small animals unless explicitly instructed by a veterinarian
- • Collect a sample of the ingested plant to confirm identification for targeted treatment
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Confirmed or suspected ingestion of large quantities of the plant, especially its seeds
- • Observation of neurological signs (uncoordinated movement, paralysis, seizures) following exposure
- • Presence of respiratory distress, difficulty swallowing, or colic in horses or other livestock
Prevention
- • Routinely inspect livestock feed to eliminate contamination with Lathyrus cicera seeds or plant matter
- • Restrict grazing access for horses, cattle, and birds to areas where this species grows densely
- • Train farm staff and at-risk pet owners to identify toxic Fabaceae plants to avoid accidental exposure
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Administer decontamination measures such as activated charcoal as clinically appropriate for the exposure timeline
- • Provide symptomatic supportive care including fluid therapy, anti-seizure medication, and respiratory support as needed
- • Perform emergency tracheotomy in horses if life-threatening laryngeal obstruction occurs
Professional Toxicology
• Toxic amino acid compounds disrupt normal collagen synthesis and central nervous system neurotransmitter function
• Chronic repeated exposure leads to cumulative, partially irreversible neurological and systemic damage over time
Information from CliniTox veterinary text.
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Data Sources
This information is for reference only and does not constitute medical advice. If ingestion or poisoning is suspected, seek medical or veterinary attention immediately.