Appropriate treats for the Performance Horse
Almost all horse lovers and owners give their horses treats from time to time. Whether it be a reward for a job well done, a hidden treat in their feed or a frozen block on a hot day, your horse will love it. There are some guidelines, however, on what horse treats are safe, what should be avoided and how often they should be offered, that you should be aware of.
Ideally, selecting healthy treats for your horse is the best option. Most fruits and vegetables are safe horse treats, as are the many commercially available horse treats sold in produce stores and saddlery’s.
Below is a list of horse treats to offer your horse, and a list of those that should be avoided due to their toxicity.
| Safe Horse Treats | Horse Treats to avoid |
| Apricots (without pit)* | Avocado |
| Apples (without core) | Broccoli |
| Berries | Brussel Sprouts |
| Banana* | Cabbage |
| Carrots | Cauliflower |
| Celery | Chocolate |
| Grapes | Kale |
| Green Beans | Onion |
| Lettuce | Alcohol |
| Mango | |
| Citrus fruits | |
| Peach | |
| Pear | |
| Plums* | |
| Pumpkin | |
| Squash | |
| Watermelon | |
| Sugar Cubes |
*Horses that suffer from equine hyperkalemic periodic paralysis disease (HYPP) should not be fed treats that are high in potassium, such as bananas, apricots and plums.
For all horse treats, it is important to remember that they are called “treats” for a reason, and moderation is key. The equine digestive tract contains a delicate balance of bacteria and microbes that are essential for intestinal function. Introducing high quantities of treats and things that aren’t provided in the normal diet, can upset this balance. Horse treats also add calories that most horses don’t require which could lead to unwanted hyperactive behaviour.
In summary:
- Natural options are always best- refer to the list above for safe fruits and vegetables.
- If choosing packet treats, always read the list of ingredients.
- Moderation is key.
- Low sugar packet varieties are always recommended.
- Only feed packet treats specifically formulated for horses.
Experts in Equine Nutrition
Every product in the Ranvet range has been developed to meet a horse’s most specific need at any given time, be it in a training environment or on a breeding farm. Having pioneered the formulation of specific medications and dietary supplements for horses, the company is now recognised as a leader in the areas of equine health and nutrition.
