Scotch Broom
Scotch Broom
plants
Scientific name
Cytisus scoparius
Alternate names
Broomtops, Common Broom, European Broom, Irish Broom
Toxicity to pets
Scotch Broom contains toxic quinolizidine alkaloids throughout the plant including the peas (seeds). Ingestion of scotch broom by livestock and companion animals results in gastrointestinal distress (e.g., drooling, vomiting, appetite loss, colic) and neurological signs (e.g. tremor, stumbling gait). Ingestion by sheep during early pregnancy leads to birth defect in the lambs.
Disclaimer
The content of this page is not veterinary advice. A number of factors (amount of substance ingested, size of the animal, allergies, etc.) determine what is toxic to a particular pet. If you think your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, call Pet Poison Helpline or seek immediate veterinary treatment.
