Which insect's toxin may be toxic to horses?

Which insect's toxin may be toxic to horses?

• A. Garden webworm
• B. Alfalfa weevil
• C. Blister beetle
• D. Cowpea aphid

Answer: (C)

Blister beetles carry a powerful toxin called cantharidin, which can poison horses if they eat beetles or hay contaminated with them. This toxin can irritate and damage the mouth, gut, and urinary tract, leading to signs like drooling, colic, and urinary problems. The other insects listed—garden webworms, alfalfa weevils, and cowpea aphids—do not produce cantharidin in a way that poses the same risk to horses, so they aren’t the typical source of this problem. To prevent exposure, inspect alfalfa hay for beetles, avoid feeding hay that shows beetles, harvest and bale when blister beetles are less active, and remove any contaminated hay. If poisoning is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Blister beetles carry a powerful toxin called cantharidin, which can poison horses if they eat beetles or hay contaminated with them. This toxin can irritate and damage the mouth, gut, and urinary tract, leading to signs like drooling, colic, and urinary problems. The other insects listed—garden webworms, alfalfa weevils, and cowpea aphids—do not produce cantharidin in a way that poses the same risk to horses, so they aren’t the typical source of this problem. To prevent exposure, inspect alfalfa hay for beetles, avoid feeding hay that shows beetles, harvest and bale when blister beetles are less active, and remove any contaminated hay. If poisoning is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.