The definitive answer here is NO, horses cannot and should not eat foxglove leaves in winter or at any other time of the year for that matter. All of the foxglove plants contain toxic cardiac glycosides, primarily digoxin, which can cause severe poisoning and potentially be fatal if ingested by horses. These toxic compounds, even…
No, horses should not eat cheese. Cheese is a dairy product derived from cow’s milk, and horses cannot properly digest it due to their herbivore digestive system being designed specifically for plant-based foods. Feeding cheese to horses can lead to various health issues, including digestive problems, obesity, and potential complications from lactose intolerance. Understanding a…
No, horses cannot safely eat yew. It is highly toxic to horses, and eating even small amounts can lead to severe illness and potentially death. As responsible horse owners, we must recognize the dangers of yew and take necessary precautions to prevent accidental ingestion. Yew is a type of evergreen shrub or tree commonly found…
Yes, horses can safely eat sweet potatoes in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Sweet potatoes are not toxic to horses and can provide several nutritional benefits when given in appropriate portions. They are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium, manganese, and copper. However, as a responsible…
Yes, horses can safely eat pumpkin, but as with any treat, it should be given in moderation. This winter squash is not only safe for most horses but also provides several nutritional benefits, such as vitamins A and C, E, and essential minerals like potassium. However, the new food must be introduced cautiously to avoid…
No, horses cannot safely eat avocados. While avocados are a nutritious snack for humans, they contain a substance called persin, which can be highly toxic to horses. Even in small amounts, this natural fungicide can cause heart and respiratory issues, leading to significant health risks. How does avocado toxicity impact horses? The main culprit is…
The short answer is NO, horses cannot safely eat chocolate. It’s not just a bad habit, it’s a health hazard. But why? Well, chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical cousin of caffeine found in cacao beans. Horses process theobromine much more slowly than humans, which allows it to build up to toxic levels in their system….
Simply put, NO, horses cannot safely eat onions. They contain N-propyl disulfide, a compound that can lead to Heinz body anemia, a potentially life-threatening condition for horses. This form of anemia damages the red blood cells, limiting their ability to carry oxygen effectively throughout the body. If a horse ingests onions, the toxins can quickly…
Can horses eat fresh pasture grass? Absolutely, they can. Fresh pasture grass is not just safe, but it’s a beneficial element of a horse’s diet. The reason is simple, horses are naturally grazing animals, and pasture grass meets their nutritional needs while encouraging normal foraging behaviors. It supplies essential nutrients such as vitamins A and…
Horses can indeed safely eat watermelon in moderation, which includes ingesting the rind and seeds. This sweet fruit offers not only hydration but also vitamins, such as Vitamin A, which supports vision, and Vitamin C, an antioxidant. When including watermelon or any new treat in your horse’s diet, it’s crucial to introduce it slowly. This…
