How many horse treats can I give per day?

Treats should not exceed 10% of your horse's daily diet, which typically means no more than a handful (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup) for a 1,000-pound horse, depending on the treat's calorie density. Always adjust based on your horse's activity level and body condition.

Can horses eat apples and carrots as treats?

Yes, apples and carrots are safe in moderation. Wash them, cut into small pieces to prevent choking, and avoid seeds from apples. Too many can cause colic or sugar spikes, so limit to a few pieces a day.

Are grain-free treats better for horses?

Grain-free treats can be beneficial for horses with metabolic issues or allergies, but they are not inherently better. Forage-based treats like hay pellets are often a healthier choice. Always check ingredients and consult your vet.

How do I store horse treats?

Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent mold. Avoid buying in bulk unless you can use them quickly, as treats can spoil or lose flavor over time.

How many treats can I give my horse?

Only a small amount, counted within the daily ration. Forage should form the bulk of the diet, with treats as occasional extras rather than a routine.

Are sugary treats bad for horses?

They can be risky for horses prone to laminitis or metabolic problems. Choose low-sugar, fibre-based treats and check with a vet if your horse has these concerns.

Horse Treats Buying Guide for Beginners

Introduction

As a fellow horse owner, you know that treats are more than just a tasty reward. They’re a tool for bonding, training, and showing your horse some extra love. But with so many options on the market, finding the right horse treats can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through what to look for, the top types to consider, how to choose, and common mistakes to avoid. Remember, every horse is unique, so always consult your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your horse has health issues like laminitis or insulin resistance.

What to Look For

When shopping for horse treats, focus on ingredients and nutritional value. Treats should complement your horse’s diet, not replace balanced feed. Look for low sugar and starch content (ideally under 10% combined). The first ingredient should be a forage like timothy hay, alfalfa, or a grain like oats rather than molasses or corn syrup. Avoid artificial colors, preservatives, and flavors. Also consider the texture: pellets are easy to portion, while hay cubes require chewing. Check for reputable brands that emphasize quality control and avoid fillers.

Top Types to Consider

1. Timothy Hay Pellets
Pros: Made from 100% timothy hay, these are low in sugar and calories. They’re easy to store and portion, and great for horses on a diet or with metabolic issues. Many horses love the taste.

2. Alfalfa Cubes
Pros: High in fiber and calcium, these provide a satisfying crunch. They can be soaked for easier chewing. Excellent for underweight horses or those needing extra energy. However, alfalfa is richer, so monitor intake.

3. Apple or Carrot Flavored Treats
Pros: Many brands offer these with natural flavors and without added sugar. They are soft enough to break easily and can be used for clicker training. Look for options with whole grains as the main ingredient.

4. Natural Chews (Branches, Sticks)
Pros: Made from branches like apple or willow, these satisfy a horse’s natural inclination to chew and can help with boredom. They are low in calories and promote dental health. Ensure they are from untreated wood.

How to Choose

Start by assessing your horse’s dietary needs. For easy keepers or horses with laminitis, stick to low-sugar options like timothy pellets. For senior horses with dental issues, consider soft treats or those that can be soaked. If your horse is a picky eater, try a small bag of apple-flavored pellets first. For training, choose small, easily consumed treats like mini pellets or soft chews. Always check the guaranteed analysis on the package for sugar and starch levels. You can check the current price on Amazon for popular brands like “Nutrena ProForce” or “Manna Pro” to get an idea. And never forget to introduce new treats gradually.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfeeding: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your horse’s daily diet. Too many can lead to obesity or colic.
Ignoring Allergies: Some horses are allergic to certain grains or sweeteners. Watch for signs like hives or loose manure.
Choosing Based on Price: Cheaper treats often contain more fillers and sugar. Prioritize ingredient quality over cost.
Using Human Food: Items like apples and carrots are fine in moderation, but avoid grapes, raisins, or chocolate.
Not Checking for Choking Hazards: Large or hard treats can be a choking risk. Always supervise feeding and consider breaking treats into smaller pieces.

Bottom Line

Selecting horse treats doesn’t have to be complicated. Focus on low-sugar, forage-based ingredients, choose a type that fits your horse’s health and training needs, and always feed in moderation. Your goal is to reward responsibly while keeping your equine friend happy and healthy. When in doubt, ask your vet for recommendations tailored to your horse.

Check current prices on Amazon

Sources

AKC
ASPCA

What you need to know

Treats are useful for training and bonding, but they should stay a small part of a horse’s mostly forage-based diet. Look for simple, fibre-based treats made with familiar ingredients and low added sugar, since horses prone to laminitis or metabolic issues need especially careful, low-sugar choices. Avoid anything heavy in molasses or sweeteners for these horses, and check the size suits safe chewing.

Feed treats sparingly and from a bucket or flat hand to discourage nipping and pushy behaviour. Introduce any new treat slowly to spot digestive upset, and never feed lawn clippings, mouldy fruit or human sweets. Counting treats into the overall daily ration helps avoid weight gain. If your horse has dental issues, insulin problems or a history of colic or laminitis, ask your equine vet which treats are safe before offering them.