Apples are one of the most popular treats for horses, and for good reason. These crunchy, sweet fruits are not only delicious but also safe and nutritious when fed properly. But how many apples can a horse eat? And are there any risks you should know about?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about feeding apples to your horse.
Can Horses Eat Apples? The Short Answer
Yes, horses can safely eat apples. Apples are a healthy, natural treat that most horses absolutely love. They’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and natural sugars that horses find irresistible.
However, like any treat, apples should be fed in moderation and prepared correctly to avoid any potential issues.
Nutritional Benefits of Apples for Horses
Apples offer several nutritional benefits for horses:
- Vitamin A – Supports healthy vision, skin, and immune function
- Vitamin C – An antioxidant that supports overall health
- Fiber – Aids in digestive health
- Potassium – Supports muscle and nerve function
- Water content – Helps with hydration (apples are about 85% water)
A medium apple contains approximately:
- 95 calories
- 25 grams of carbohydrates
- 19 grams of natural sugar
- 4 grams of fiber
How to Safely Feed Apples to Your Horse
1. Wash the Apple Thoroughly
Always wash apples before feeding them to remove any pesticides, wax, or dirt. Organic apples are an excellent choice if available.
2. Cut Apples Into Pieces
This is important for safety. Whole apples can be a choking hazard, especially for horses that eat quickly. Cut apples into quarters or smaller pieces to reduce the risk.
3. Remove the Core and Seeds (Optional but Recommended)
Apple seeds contain small amounts of amygdalin, which can release cyanide when digested. While a horse would need to eat an enormous quantity of seeds to experience any toxic effects, it’s best practice to remove them, especially if feeding apples regularly.
4. Feed in Moderation
While apples are healthy, they’re also high in sugar. Too many apples can:
- Cause digestive upset
- Contribute to weight gain
- Increase risk of laminitis in susceptible horses
How Many Apples Can a Horse Eat?
For a healthy, average-sized horse (1,000 lbs), the following guidelines apply:
- Daily limit: 1-2 apples maximum
- Weekly total: No more than 6-8 apples
- As a treat: A few slices as a training reward is perfectly fine
Remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of your horse’s daily diet. The bulk of their nutrition should come from hay and/or pasture.
Which Horses Should Avoid Apples?
While most horses can enjoy apples safely, some should avoid them or eat them only rarely:
Horses with Metabolic Issues
- Insulin-resistant horses – The sugar content can cause problems
- Horses prone to laminitis – High sugar can trigger episodes
- Horses with Cushing’s disease (PPID) – Often have metabolic complications
Horses on Restricted Diets
- Easy keepers – Horses that gain weight easily should have limited treats
- Horses with dental issues – May have difficulty chewing hard apples
Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure whether apples are appropriate for your horse.
Can Horses Eat Apple Peels and Cores?
Apple Peels
Yes, horses can eat apple peels. The skin is actually where many of the nutrients are concentrated. Just make sure to wash the apple thoroughly first.
Apple Cores
Cores are generally safe but can be a choking hazard. The seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide compounds, but a horse would need to eat hundreds of seeds to experience any ill effects. Still, it’s easy enough to remove the core, so why not play it safe?
What About Different Apple Varieties?
All common apple varieties are safe for horses:
- Red Delicious – Sweet and crunchy
- Granny Smith – Tart but still enjoyed by most horses
- Fuji – Very sweet, a favorite for many horses
- Gala – Mild and sweet
- Honeycrisp – Sweet and juicy
Most horses don’t seem to have a strong preference, though sweeter varieties are often more popular.
Can Horses Eat Cooked Apples or Applesauce?
Cooked Apples
Plain cooked apples (without added sugar or spices) are safe for horses. However, most horses prefer the crunch of raw apples.
Applesauce
Unsweetened applesauce is safe and can be useful for:
- Hiding medications
- Horses with dental issues who can’t chew hard treats
- Senior horses
Avoid sweetened applesauce as it contains unnecessary added sugars.
Signs Your Horse Has Eaten Too Many Apples
If your horse accidentally gets into a bag of apples or eats too many, watch for these signs:
- Loose stool or diarrhea
- Gas or bloating
- Decreased appetite
- Signs of colic (pawing, rolling, looking at sides)
If you notice signs of colic or your horse seems distressed, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Creative Ways to Feed Apples
- Frozen apple slices – Great for hot summer days
- Apple and carrot mix – Combine two favorite treats
- Hidden in hay – Encourages foraging behavior
- Training rewards – Small pieces work great for positive reinforcement
- Stuffed in treat balls – Provides mental enrichment
Other Fruits Horses Can Eat
If your horse loves apples, they’ll probably enjoy these other safe fruits:
- Carrots – Another classic favorite
- Bananas – With or without the peel
- Watermelon – Including the rind
- Strawberries – In moderation
- Pears – Similar to apples
Check out our complete guide to horse nutrition for more information on safe foods.
Final Thoughts
Apples are one of the safest and most beloved treats you can give your horse. They’re nutritious, affordable, and most horses go crazy for them. Just remember to:
- Wash apples before feeding
- Cut them into pieces to prevent choking
- Limit treats to 1-2 apples per day
- Avoid feeding to horses with metabolic issues
Your horse will thank you for this delicious, healthy treat!
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