[Meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale) in hay and colic in horses].

This research paper discusses an incident where three horses developed colic, a digestive disorder, after consuming hay contaminated with autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale). One of the horses later died. The paper postulates that this was due to colchicine intoxication, a toxic compound found in autumn crocus.

Study Background

• The study was prompted by an incident where three horses from a unit of 17 developed colic – a severe, often fluctuating pain in the abdomen that is caused by the spasmodic contraction of the intestines – after being fed a new batch of hay purchased from Southern Germany.
• One of the affected horses died, and investigations revealed an unnaturally high accumulation of serous or serous-haemorrhagic fluid in the thorax and abdomen.

Hay Contamination

• Further study of the hay showed heavy contamination with autumn crocus, comprising about 1.48% of the total hay mass. Autumn crocus, otherwise known as Colchicum autumnale, is a plant known to produce a toxic compound called colchicine.
• The other feedstuffs were of good quality, and no further cases of colic occurred once the affected hay was removed, thereby underscoring the likelihood that the Colchicum autumnale in the hay was responsible for the colic outbreak.

Indications of Colchicine Intoxication

• The autopsy results of the dead horse also pointed towards colchicine intoxication. Colchicine is a toxic chemical produced by the autumn crocus. It’s known to affect multiple body systems and can cause serious disruptions in the digestive system, as evident in symptoms such as colic.
• The link between the presence of Colchicum autumnale in the hay and the colic episodes in the horses implies that it is necessary for hay producers and horse owners alike to pay more attention to the quality and safety of the feedstuffs, especially hay, given to horses.