Top 10 Healthy Horse Treats

Healthy treats are a fun way to bond with your horse, encourage good behavior, and add some flavor to their diet. But with so many options available, it’s important to focus on snacks that are both safe and nourishing. Natural treats or those specially made for horses can help avoid excessive sugar, artificial flavors, or dangerous ingredients.

Through taste testing and feedback from my own horses, I’ve sorted out what most horses love—while keeping nutrition and safety in mind. Remember: treats should be given in moderation and tailored to your horse’s unique needs, especially for those with conditions like insulin resistance (IR), equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), or PPID (Cushing’s).

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats, especially for horses with medical conditions or dietary restrictions.

🍏 1. Apples

Why It’s Healthy: Apples are rich in moisture, fiber, and vitamin C. They’re a hydrating, crunchy treat that most horses love.

Serving Tips: Slice into wedges and remove core/seeds. One medium apple contains ~19g sugar, so limit to no more than half an apple (2–3 slices) per day for sensitive horses.

Best For: Most healthy horses.

Caution For: IR, EMS, or PPID horses (due to natural sugars).

🥕2. Carrots

Why It’s Healthy: Crunchy, low-calorie, and full of beta-carotene and vitamin A.

Serving Tips: Chop into 2–3 inch pieces to reduce choking risk. Limit to 1–2 medium carrots per day for horses with metabolic concerns

Best For: Training rewards, dental stimulation.

Caution For: Laminitic or insulin-sensitive horses in quantities over 1–2 carrots daily.

🌿 3. Peppermint Leaves

Why It’s Healthy: Peppermint aids digestion, soothes the stomach, and freshens breath.

Serving Tips: Offer 5–10 fresh, washed leaves or 1 tsp dried leaves per serving.

Best For: Horses with digestive sensitivity.

Caution For: None, when used in small amounts.

🍌 4. Bananas

Why It’s Healthy: High in potassium, magnesium, and easy to chew. Great for horses needing soft foods.

Serving Tips: Slice, and optionally include the peel (washed). Some horses love the peel! Do not exceed one banana per day for metabolic horses.

Best For: Working horses or those with dental concerns.

Caution For: Higher sugar content—feed only 1–2 times per week in sensitive horses.

🍇 5. Blueberries

Why It’s Healthy: Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Low in sugar compared to other fruits.

Serving Tips: Offer 10–20 washed blueberries at a time. Suitable for hand feeding or mixing with feed. Great for hand-feeding or hiding medication.

Best For: Senior horses or training use.

Caution For: Minimal—suitable even for metabolic horses in moderation.

🍉 6. Watermelon

Why It’s Healthy: Over 90% water, making it hydrating and cooling on hot days.

Serving Tips: Remove seeds and rind, cut into cubes.

Best For: Summer treats or after exercise.

Caution For: Some horses dislike the texture. Over 1–2 cups may cause loose manure.

🥒 7. Celery

Why It’s Healthy: Virtually sugar-free, full of fiber, and helps with chewing.

Serving Tips: Cut into 3–4 inch sticks. Offer up to 2 stalks per day.

Best For: Overweight horses or those with laminitis risk.

Caution For: Can be unappealing alone—try adding a smear of unsweetened applesauce.

🌾 8. Homemade Oat & Flax Treats

Why It’s Healthy: DIY lets you control sugar, starch, and ingredients. Great source of fiber and omega-3s.

Serving Tips: Feed no more than 2 small balls (1″ diameter) per day. Store in a cool, dry place.

Best For: Customizable for special diets or hiding pills.

Caution For: Watch portion sizes and adjust ingredients for metabolic horses. Avoid adding molasses, honey, or excessive applesauce for them.

🌱 9. Pumpkin (Cooked or Canned)

Why It’s Healthy: Full of fiber, vitamin A, and easy on digestion.

Serving Tips: Use plain cooked or unsweetened canned pumpkin. Mix with feed or serve alone. Limit to 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day.

Best For: Older horses, digestive health.

Caution For: Avoid pumpkin pie filling (contains sugar/spices).

💼 10. Commercial Low Sugar Treats

Why It’s Healthy: Designed for horses, often low NSC (non-structural carbohydrates), and made with safe, simple ingredients.

Top Picks:

• SmartPak SmartCookies – Flax-based, no sugar added. Great for IR/EMS horses.
• Hilton Herbs Herballs – Herbal treats with no molasses.
• Standlee Apple Berry Cookie Cubes – Forage-based and naturally flavored.

Serving Tips: Follow label directions. Handy for travel or vet visits. ypically 1–2 treats per day per 500 kg horse.

Caution For: Always check ingredients; not all “horse treats” are low sugar.

⚠️ Safety First: Treats to Avoid

Never feed horses:

• Chocolate
• Onions, garlic, chives
• Avocados
• Tomatoes
• Lawn clippings
• Bread and baked goods
• Dairy products
• Moldy feed or hay

Always introduce new foods gradually and watch for any digestive upset.

For more info, consult your vet or check guidelines from the AAEP.

😍 Enjoying Treat Time

Healthy treats can make training, enrichment, and bonding more fun. These options offer a mix of taste, nutrition, and practicality—and most are vet-approved. With variety, portion control, and your horse’s individual health in mind, treats can be a joyful part of your routine while supporting their well-being.

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