PlantFunRattle Toxic?
All parts of the Rattle plant contain the toxic iridoid glycoside aucubin (rhinanthin), with an overall low toxicity rating
Ingestion can trigger gastrointestinal inflammation, colic, central nervous system damage, kidney injury, cramps and bloody urine
Aucubin is inactive in dried hay, so hay containing this plant poses no toxicity risk to humans or animals
FAQ
Is Rattle toxic to Humans?
Gastrointestinal inflammation, inhibited digestion, diarrhea, colic, central nervous system inflammation, kidney inflammation, muscle cramps, bloody urine (Low)
Is Rattle toxic to Cats?
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed (Unknown)
Is Rattle toxic to Dogs?
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed (Unknown)
Is Rattle toxic to Horses?
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed (Unknown)
Toxicity Details
Gastrointestinal inflammation, inhibited digestion, diarrhea, colic, central nervous system inflammation, kidney inflammation, muscle cramps, bloody urine
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed
No species-specific toxicity data available; suspected to present similar gastrointestinal, neurological and renal symptoms as other species if ingested, contact a vet immediately if exposure is confirmed
Toxicity Snapshot
First Aid & Prevention
First 30 Minutes
- • Induce vomiting only if ingestion occurred within the last 2 hours and the exposed individual/pet is fully conscious
- • Administer activated charcoal to absorb residual toxic compounds if directed by a medical professional or veterinarian
- • Avoid giving food, drink or home remedies without professional guidance to prevent worsening of gastrointestinal symptoms
Contact Vet Immediately
- • Confirmed ingestion of any quantity of fresh Rhinanthus antiquus plant material
- • Observation of symptoms including diarrhea, colic, cramps, or bloody urine after potential exposure
- • Exposure in vulnerable groups (young animals/pets, immunocompromised humans, pregnant individuals)
Prevention
- • Remove fresh Rattle plants from pastures, gardens and areas accessible to children, pets and livestock
- • Note that hay containing this plant is safe for consumption, as the toxic compound aucubin deactivates during drying
- • Avoid foraging for wild edible plants in areas where this species grows to prevent accidental ingestion
Treatment & Prognosis
- • Perform appropriate decontamination procedures including gastric lavage and activated charcoal administration based on exposure timeline
- • Provide symptomatic supportive care including fluid therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and anti-spasmodics to manage symptoms
- • Monitor kidney function and gastrointestinal status for 24-72 hours post-exposure to identify delayed adverse effects
Professional Toxicology
• The toxic compound aucubin (rhinanthin) triggers inflammatory responses in organ tissue after ingestion
• The compound disrupts normal digestive function, and causes damage to central nervous system and kidney tissue at sufficient doses
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.