Quick Answer Horses can eat cherries only in moderation due to the cyanide-containing pit mechanism. The pit, leaves, and stem of cherry plants contain a compound that can release cyanide, a toxic substance, when ingested. Consuming large amounts can be toxic to horses. Moderation is key when feeding cherries to horses. ## Is Cherries Safe for Horses? While cherries can be a nutritious and tasty treat for horses, the risks associated with their consumption must be considered. The main concern is the presence of cyanide in the pits, leaves, and stems of the plant. ## Benefits * Cherries are a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect horses from oxidative stress and inflammation. * They contain fiber, which can help support healthy digestion in horses. * Cherries are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium. ## Risks and Precautions * The pits, leaves, and stems of cherry plants contain cyanide, which can be toxic to horses if ingested in large amounts. * Consuming large amounts of cherries can cause gastrointestinal upset in horses, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. * Horses with certain health conditions, such as kidney disease, may need to limit their cherry consumption due to the high sugar content. ## How to Feed It Safely If you want to feed cherries to your horse, make sure to only offer the fruit, without the pits, leaves, or stems. A good portion size is about 1/2 cup of cherries per 1000 pounds of body weight, and they can be fed 1-2 times a week. ## Bottom Line While cherries can be a healthy treat for horses when fed in moderation, it’s essential to consult with an exotic or large animal veterinarian before making any changes to your horse’s diet, especially if they have any health concerns.
Sources
What you need to know
Cherry flesh is not toxic, but cherries come with a real hazard: the stones. Cherry pits contain compounds that can release cyanide, and the leaves and stems of cherry trees are also a concern. Because of this, cherries are a treat to handle with caution rather than offer freely from a bowl.
If you ever share cherry flesh, it must be fully pitted, and even then only a tiny amount, since the stones are easy to miss and can also cause choke or blockage. Many owners simply avoid cherries to be safe and choose apple or carrot instead. Keep horses away from cherry trees and fallen fruit in pasture. If you suspect a horse has eaten cherry stones or wilted leaves, call your vet promptly.