No, it is strongly advised that donkeys do not eat plums.
Feeding plums to donkeys poses significant health risks, primarily due to potential toxicity and physical hazards associated with the fruit and the parent tree.
Why Are Plums Unsafe for Donkeys?
According to veterinary advice, donkeys should avoid access to trees of the Prunus species, which includes plums, cherries, and almonds. The key reasons for this caution are:
- Toxicity: All parts of Prunus trees, including the leaves, stems, bark, and even the fruit (especially the pit), can contain varying amounts of a toxic substance. While the concentration can vary, ingestion can lead to poisoning in donkeys.
- Choking Hazard: The stones (pits) of plums present a significant choking hazard for donkeys. Their shape and size can easily become lodged in a donkey's throat or digestive tract, leading to serious complications.
Even if a donkey seems to eat a small piece of plum flesh without immediate issue, the underlying risks of toxicity from parts of the fruit/tree and the danger posed by the stone make plums unsuitable for their diet.
Risks Associated with Plums
- Toxic Compounds: Prunus species contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be converted to cyanide in the donkey's digestive system.
- Digestive Upset: Introducing new or unsuitable fruits like plums can disrupt a donkey's sensitive digestive system.
- Physical Obstruction: The hard plum stones can cause blockages in the esophagus or intestines.
Preventing Access to Plums
To ensure your donkey's safety, take the following steps:
- Fence off areas containing plum trees to prevent donkeys from grazing on fallen leaves, fruit, or accessing the bark.
- Immediately clear any fallen plums from pastures or areas donkeys can access.
- Do not intentionally feed plums or plum parts to your donkey.
Important: If you suspect your donkey has eaten plums or any part of a plum tree and shows signs of illness (e.g., colic, difficulty breathing, lethargy), contact your veterinarian immediately.
For a healthy diet, donkeys should primarily consume hay or grass, supplemented with appropriate minerals and fresh water. Treats should be given sparingly and consist of donkey-safe options like small amounts of carrots or apples (without cores or seeds).
