Key Takeaway: What Fruits Can Horses Eat?
Horses, whether it's a majestic stallion or a playful pony, enjoy a variety of fruits as treats. While fruits can offer essential vitamins and hydration, not all fruits are safe. It's essential to know which ones to serve, how to prepare them, and in what amounts to maintain your horse's health.

1. Horse-Friendly Fruits: The Yays!

Contrary to popular belief, horses thrive on more than just hay. They enjoy a range of fruits, which are perfect for training rewards or just plain pampering. Some top picks include:

• Apples: A classic favorite. Always remove the seeds.
• Bananas: Yes, with the peel! Many horses adore them.
• Berries (like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): A delightful summer treat.
• Grapes: Both green and red work. Ensure they're seedless.
• Pears: Just like apples, always discard the seeds.
• Watermelons: Great for hydration during hot days.

2. Fruits to Proceed With Caution: The Maybes

Some fruits are generally safe but require some precautions:

1. Citrus fruits (like oranges): Most horses like them, but it's a bit of an acquired taste. They're best fed in moderation.
2. Pineapple: Ensure it's ripe and always remove the tough core.
3. Coconuts: In small amounts, they can be a unique treat. Just ensure it's fresh and free from any preservatives.
4. Peaches and Plums: They're safe, but always remove the pits.

3. Avoid at All Costs: The Neighs

While fruits are generally loved by horses, a few can be detrimental to their health:

• Avocados: They contain persin, a toxic compound for horses.
• Cherries: The pits and leaves are toxic.
• Tomatoes: They're considered a fruit, but not suitable for horses.
• Rhubarb: Toxic and can lead to kidney damage.

4. How to Feed Fruits to Horses, Ponies, and Babies

Regardless of whether you're treating a full-grown horse, a pony, or baby horses, it's essential to introduce any new food slowly. Here's a checklist:

1. Start Small: Introduce a small amount and monitor for any allergic reactions or digestive issues.
2. Preparation: Wash the fruits thoroughly, remove seeds, pits, and any inedible parts.
3. Frequency: Remember, fruits are treats and shouldn't form a significant portion of their diet.

For the main course, consider nutritious hay options. Oaten hay is often seen as the go-to choice, but lucerne hay has its benefits too. Dive deep into the topic with our article, "The Great Oaten Debate: Is Oaten Hay the Mane Course for Your Horse?".

5. Health Benefits of Fruits

While hay should always be the staple, incorporating fruits into your horse's diet can offer:

• Vital Vitamins: Especially Vitamin C.
• Hydration: High-water content fruits like watermelons are great during summers.
• Antioxidants: To combat free radicals and boost overall health.
• Training Rewards: Many trainers use fruits as positive reinforcement during sessions.

Conclusion

When we think of horses, we often picture them munching on hay or galloping across fields. While hay, especially options like oaten hay, remains their primary diet, fruits can add an exciting dimension to their meal times. Remember to always prioritize safety first. Whether you're treating a racehorse, a family pony, or the newest baby horse addition to your barn, ensuring their food is both tasty and safe is paramount. Here's to many fruity and fun feeding times ahead!