Potential

• Fescue seed is toxic and most commonly affects grazing animals such as goats, cattle, sheep and horses. Pregnant goats seem to be especially sensitive to the toxicity of the fescue seed.
  
  

Effects

• Animals that ingest the fescue seed may suffer from reduced body weight, poor coat, poor circulation and difficulty during pregnancy. Pregnant animals that have ingested fescue seed typically go past their due dates by 10 days or more, have little milk, have no cervical dilation during labor, develop thick umbilical cords, experience weak contractions and typically have thick placentas.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• According to Auburn University, fescue seed effects are directly related to the amount of fescue seed or grass consumed by the animal. Reducing the amount of fescue ingested by the animal is the key to minimizing its effects. Feeding grain or nontoxic hay can reduce the amount of fescue seed or grass the animal ingests. Planting legumes, red clover or alfalfa may help reduce the amount of fescue ingested, as well.