![Can Horses Eat Celery? Safe Treat Guide [2026]](https://horsebesties.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/115/2026/01/horse_celery-1024x600.png)
When reaching for a healthy snack, celery might seem like a great option to share with your horse. But can horses eat celery safely?
Quick Answer: Yes, Horses Can Eat Celery!
Celery is safe for horses and can be a healthy, low-calorie treat. Most horses enjoy the crunchy texture.
Nutritional Benefits
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Water (95%) | Excellent hydration |
| Fiber | Digestive health |
| Vitamin K | Blood clotting |
| Potassium | Electrolyte balance |
| Low sugar | Safe for metabolic horses (in moderation) |
Why Celery Is Great for Horses
Low-Calorie Option
- Almost no sugar
- Very low calories
- Good for overweight horses
- Alternative to sugary treats
High Water Content
- 95% water
- Helps with hydration
- Good summer treat
How to Feed Celery Safely
Preparation
- Cut into pieces: 2-4 inch lengths prevent choking
- Wash thoroughly: Remove dirt and pesticides
- Include leaves: Safe and nutritious
- Remove strings: Optional, but some prefer to
Choking Prevention
Celery’s stringy texture can pose a choking risk:
- Cut into shorter pieces
- Don’t feed whole stalks
- Supervise while eating
- Consider breaking strings
How Much Celery Can Horses Eat?
Recommended Amounts
- Occasional treat: 2-4 stalks is reasonable
- Maximum: A small bunch (half head)
- Frequency: Can be daily for healthy horses
Why Limit Celery?
- Should not replace hay or grain
- Too much fiber from unusual source may cause loose stool
- Contains natural sodium (minor concern)
Celery for Metabolic Horses
Celery is one of the safer treats for horses with:
- Insulin resistance: Very low sugar
- Cushings: Low calorie option
- Laminitis (recovering): Better than fruit treats
- Obesity: Low calorie, satisfying crunch
Note: Even for metabolic horses, treats should be limited. Consult your vet.
What About Celery Leaves?
Yes, celery leaves are safe!
- Higher in nutrients than stalks
- More vitamin C and calcium
- Most horses enjoy them
- Don’t throw them away!
Celery vs. Other Treats
| Treat | Sugar | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Celery | Very low | Metabolic horses, dieters |
| Carrots | Moderate | Daily treats |
| Apples | High | Occasional rewards |
| Hay cubes | Low | Metabolic horses |
The Bottom Line
Celery is a safe, healthy, and low-calorie treat for horses. Its high water content and low sugar make it especially good for hot days and metabolic horses. Just cut it into manageable pieces to prevent choking, wash it well, and your horse can enjoy this crunchy snack regularly.
Sources: American Association of Equine Practitioners, University of Florida Extension
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