What Can Horses Eat? Safe Fruits and Vegetables for Horses

What Can Horses Eat? Safe Fruits and Vegetables for Horses in Australia

Horses are natural grazers. In the wild, they would spend most of their time eating grasses and other forage, which is why hay and pasture are the foundation of every healthy equine diet. But as horse owners, we also like to give our horses a little variety – whether that’s a crunchy carrot after a ride, a juicy apple on a hot day, or even a slice of watermelon as a summer treat.

While many fruits and vegetables are perfectly safe, some can cause digestive upset or even serious health risks if fed incorrectly. Knowing the difference between safe and unsafe foods is essential for every rider and horse owner. This guide breaks down the most common fruits and vegetables horses can eat safely, how to feed them, and when it’s best to say no.

Why Moderation is Key with Horse Treats

Before diving into the list of safe foods, it’s important to understand one thing: treats are just that – treats. Horses have very sensitive digestive systems that are designed to handle small, continuous amounts of forage. Sudden changes, large portions of fruit, or excess sugar can easily throw their gut balance off.

Even healthy fruits and vegetables should be fed in small amounts, ideally just a few slices at a time. Overfeeding can increase the risk of colic, diarrhoea, and laminitis. A good rule of thumb is to think of treats as an occasional reward, not a dietary staple.

Safe Fruits for Horses

Fruits are often a horse’s favourite treat thanks to their sweetness and juiciness. They can also help provide extra hydration in hot Australian summers. Here are some safe options:

• Apples – The classic horse treat. Always remove the core and seeds before feeding, as seeds can contain harmful compounds if eaten in large amounts. Slice apples into manageable pieces to avoid choking.
• Bananas – Soft, sweet, and easy to chew. Some horses even enjoy the peel. Bananas are safe in moderation and can be a useful reward after training.
• Pears – Another juicy favourite. Like apples, remove the core and seeds before feeding. Offer a few slices at a time for a safe and refreshing snack.
• Watermelon – Perfect for summer. Horses can eat both the red flesh and the rind, provided it’s clean and cut into chunks. A hydrating, cooling option on hot days.
• Strawberries – Sweet and refreshing, strawberries are safe in small quantities. Wash thoroughly and feed sparingly due to natural sugars.
• Oranges – Some horses enjoy the tangy flavour of oranges, peel included. Feed wedges occasionally to add variety, but don’t overdo it due to their acidity and sugar content.
• Grapes – Safe in small amounts, but they should be cut in half to avoid choking. Too many can cause stomach upset, so limit them to a rare treat.

Safe Vegetables for Horses

Vegetables are a fantastic option for horses because they are generally lower in sugar than fruits and provide a satisfying crunch. Here are some safe vegetables your horse can enjoy:

• Carrots – Perhaps the most popular horse snack of all time. Carrots are low in calories, easy to feed, and can even be chopped into small pieces for training rewards.
• Celery – High in fibre and water, celery is a hydrating, crunchy option. Chop it into small sticks to make chewing easier and reduce choking risk.
• Cucumber – With a water content of around 95%, cucumbers are one of the best cooling treats for summer. Slice into sticks or discs for easy feeding.
• Pumpkin – Fresh, raw pumpkin is safe and nutritious. Feed in small, clean chunks and avoid mouldy or processed pumpkin. The seeds can also be fed in moderation.
• Lettuce – Non-toxic and mostly water. It’s not particularly nutrient-dense, but some horses enjoy the crunch. Stick to mild varieties like cos or butter lettuce.

How Much Fruit and Veg Should You Feed?

Even though these foods are safe, portion size is critical. Horses don’t need a full bowl of fruit or veg to feel spoiled. A couple of slices, or a handful of small pieces, is plenty. Remember that even natural sugars add up quickly, and too much can upset their digestive system.

A useful guideline is to keep treats under 10% of your horse’s total diet. Their main nutrition should always come from pasture, hay, and balanced feed.

Supplements for a Balanced Diet

While fruits and vegetables are fun extras, they don’t replace the essential nutrition horses need to thrive. That’s where supplements come in. Delzani’s equine nutrition and supplements range helps fill in the gaps by supporting key areas of equine health.

• Hoof health – Supplements designed to improve hoof quality, strength, and growth.
• Joint support – Formulas that maintain mobility and comfort, especially for performance horses.
• Electrolyte balance – Essential for replacing salts lost during training, competition, or hot weather.
• Immune and digestive health – Everyday blends to keep your horse resilient, energetic, and well-balanced.

These supplements are ideal for horses in training, those recovering from illness or injury, or simply for maintaining optimal wellbeing. Explore the Delzani equine supplement range to ensure your horse’s diet goes beyond treats and truly supports their long-term health.

Important Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Every horse is unique, and some may have sensitivities or health conditions that affect what they can safely eat. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes or introducing new foods.

Final Thoughts

Horses love variety, and safe fruits and vegetables can add enrichment to their daily routine. Whether it’s a slice of apple after a ride, a chunk of watermelon in summer, or a crunchy carrot straight from the fridge, treats can help build trust and bring joy to your partnership. The key is moderation, balance, and awareness of what’s safe.

Looking for more ways to keep your horse happy and healthy? Explore Delzani’s premium collection of horse rugs, fly masks, grooming brushes, and nutritional supplements – all designed to give your horse the comfort, care, and protection they deserve in Australian conditions.