Can Horses Eat Oats? The Safest Grain Explained [2026]

Yes, horses can eat oats—and they’re actually considered the safest grain for horses! Oats have been a staple in horse feeding for centuries, and their relatively low starch content and high fiber make them a more forgiving choice than other grains. But is oats-as-a-treat different from oats-as-feed?

This guide covers everything you need to know about feeding oats to horses.

Are Oats Safe for Horses?

Oats are the safest grain you can feed horses. Among all cereal grains, oats have the lowest starch content and highest fiber content, making them the most digestible and least likely to cause problems.

According to Kentucky Equine Research, oats are often called the “safest grain for horses” due to their nutritional profile and digestibility.

What makes oats safer than other grains:

• Lower starch content (~45% vs. 70% for corn)
• Higher fiber content (hull provides fiber)
• Slower digestion reduces colic risk
• Less likely to cause hindgut acidosis
• Traditional, time-tested horse feed

Oats as Feed vs. Oats as a Treat

Oats in Regular Feeding

Oats are commonly used as a grain component in horse diets. For horses that need additional calories beyond what hay provides, oats are an excellent choice.

Oats as an Occasional Treat

A handful of oats makes a perfectly safe treat. Many horses love the taste and texture.

Treat guidelines:

• A handful (about 1/4 cup) is a reasonable treat amount
• Can be fed daily in small amounts without concern
• Mix with other treats for variety

Types of Oats

Whole Oats

Oats with the hull intact. Most common form for horses. The hull provides fiber but may pass through undigested in horses that don’t chew well.

Crimped/Rolled Oats

Slightly processed to crack the hull, improving digestibility. Good choice for senior horses or fast eaters.

Steel-Cut Oats

Safe for horses but more commonly used for human consumption. Fine for treats.

Instant/Quick Oats

Safe in small amounts but more processed. Better to use whole or crimped oats for horses.

Nutritional Benefits of Oats

Additional Benefits

• B vitamins: Support energy metabolism
• Phosphorus: Bone health (though may need calcium balancing)
• Beta-glucans: Fiber type that supports gut health

How Much Oats Can Horses Eat?

As Part of Regular Diet

General guidelines (consult with equine nutritionist for specific horses):

• Light work: 0-2 lbs per day
• Moderate work: 2-5 lbs per day
• Heavy work: 5-8 lbs per day

As a Treat

• A handful daily is perfectly safe
• No need to count exact amounts for small treat portions

Horses Who Should Limit Oats

While oats are the safest grain, some horses should still limit them:

Metabolic Horses

Horses with these conditions should limit ALL grains, including oats:

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
• Insulin resistance
• Cushing’s disease (PPID)
• Laminitis history

Easy Keepers

Horses who maintain weight easily may not need any grain, including oats.

Horses Prone to Tying Up

Some horses with PSSM or RER do better with lower starch diets.

Oats vs. Other Horse Treats

Creative Ways to Use Oats

Mixed with Treats

Combine a handful of oats with apple pieces or carrot chunks for a varied snack.

In Treat Recipes

Oats are a base ingredient in many homemade horse treats.

Medication Hiding

Mix crushed pills or powder medications into a small amount of oats with a bit of molasses.

Storage and Quality

For safe oat feeding:

• Store in cool, dry location
• Use sealed containers to prevent moisture and pests
• Check for mold or musty smell before feeding
• Use within 3-6 months of purchase

Frequently Asked Questions

Are oats better than commercial feeds?
Neither is universally “better.” Commercial feeds are formulated with balanced vitamins and minerals. Plain oats may need supplementation for horses on oats-only grain diets.

Can horses eat oatmeal?
Plain cooked oatmeal (unsweetened, no milk) is safe in small amounts but messier to feed than whole oats.

Do oats make horses “hot”?
Some horses become more energetic on any grain, but oats are generally less “heating” than corn.

Can foals eat oats?
Foals can begin eating small amounts of grain around 2-3 months as they begin nibbling at their dam’s feed. Creep feeds designed for foals are often preferable.

The Bottom Line

Oats are the safest grain for horses and make an excellent treat or feed addition. Their lower starch content and higher fiber make them more forgiving than other grains. Whether you’re feeding oats as a regular part of your horse’s diet or just offering a handful as a treat, you can feel confident that oats are a time-tested, horse-approved choice.

Sources: Kentucky Equine Research, American Association of Equine Practitioners, Penn State Extension