Quick Answer
Yes, horses can eat tomatoes, but only in moderation and only the ripe red fruit. The green parts of the tomato plant, including stems, leaves, and unripe tomatoes, contain tomatine and solanine, which are glycoalkaloids toxic to horses. Feeding too many ripe tomatoes can also lead to gastrointestinal upset due to their acidity and sugar content. Always remove green parts and offer tomatoes as an occasional treat, not a dietary staple. ## Is Tomatoes Safe for Horses?
Tomatoes belong to the nightshade family, which includes plants like potatoes and eggplants. While the ripe fruit is generally safe for horses, the green parts contain toxic compounds. Tomatine and solanine can cause colic, diarrhea, depression, and even neurological signs in severe cases. Horses are large animals, so a small amount of green plant material may not cause immediate harm, but it’s best to avoid any risk. The ripe tomato itself is low in calories and contains beneficial nutrients like vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants such as lycopene. However, horses primarily need forage (hay or grass) and should only receive treats like tomatoes in limited quantities to prevent digestive imbalances. ## Benefits
– Low calorie treat: Ripe tomatoes are low in sugar compared to many fruits, making them a healthier option for overweight horses or those with metabolic issues.
– Antioxidants: Lycopene and vitamin C support immune health and may reduce oxidative stress.
– Hydration: Tomatoes have high water content, which can help with hydration on hot days.
– Variety: Offering tomatoes as an occasional treat can add enrichment to a horse’s diet. ## Risks and Precautions
– Toxic green parts: Leaves, stems, and unripe tomatoes contain tomatine and solanine, which can cause colic, diarrhea, depression, and weakness.
– Acidity: High acidity may irritate the mouth or stomach, especially in horses prone to ulcers.
– Digestive upset: Too many ripe tomatoes can lead to loose stools or gas due to their sugar and fiber content.
– Pesticides: Always wash tomatoes thoroughly to remove harmful residues.
– Choking hazard: Large whole tomatoes can be a choking risk; cut them into smaller pieces. ## How to Feed It Safely
Only offer ripe, red tomatoes that are free from any green spots. Wash the tomato, remove the stem, and cut it into quarters or smaller chunks to prevent choking. Start with a small piece to see if your horse tolerates it. A good rule of thumb is no more than one whole tomato per day for a full-sized horse, and only 2-3 times per week. Never feed the green parts or any tomato plant material. For horses with health conditions (e.g., metabolic syndrome, ulcers), consult an exotic/large-animal veterinarian before adding new treats. ## Bottom Line
Ripe tomatoes can be a safe, low-calorie treat for horses when fed in strict moderation. However, the green parts are toxic and must be avoided entirely. Overfeeding ripe tomatoes may cause digestive upset, so limit to one whole tomato a few times per week. If you have any concerns about your horse’s diet, always consult with an exotic/large-animal veterinarian.
Sources
What you need to know
Tomatoes are best avoided for horses. Like potatoes, they belong to the nightshade family, and the plant, leaves, stems and unripe green fruit contain solanine and related compounds that can upset the digestive system and cause more serious effects. The plants are far more toxic than the ripe fruit, so keep horses away from tomato plants in gardens and vegetable patches.
Even ripe tomato flesh offers little benefit and can disturb a horse’s sensitive gut, so most owners simply leave tomatoes off the menu entirely. There are plenty of safer treats to choose from. If your horse breaks into a vegetable garden and eats tomato plants or green fruit, watch for colic signs, drooling or unusual behaviour and contact your vet for advice.