Alfalfa Cubes Recalled by FDA Due to Botulism-Like Horse Deaths

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is aware of at least 45 horses in Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas who have died or were euthanized due to declining health.

The FDA is aware of at least 98 horses in Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas who showed neurological clinical signs.

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December 21, 2022 | News and Publications | Healthcare and medication , Horse Health and care

Source: Texas Animal Health Commission

For awareness, the Texas Animal Health Commission provides the following announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) related to alfalfa cubes for livestock consumption.

The FDA is aware of at least 98 horses in Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, and Texas who showed neurological clinical signs. At least 45 of these horses have died or were euthanized due to declining health. The symptoms reported are consistent with botulism, and while further testing is underway to pinpoint the cause of the horse illnesses, horse owners and handlers should take precautions to protect human and animal health. Immediately consult a veterinarian if your horse ate this product and shows signs of neurologic illness, such as muscle tremors, difficulty eating or swallowing, difficulty standing, or collapse.