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Home > Horses > Can Horses Eat Oranges? Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Can Horses Eat Oranges? Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Can horses eat oranges

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Dr. Lorna Whittemore Photo

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

Veterinarian, MRCVS

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Horses are herbivores, so their diet consists mostly of plants. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t eat other things. In fact, many horse owners like to give their horses occasional treats, such as oranges. But can horses actually eat oranges? The answer is yes!

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Can Horses Eat Oranges?

Horses can eat oranges without any problems. Citrus fruit provides a good source of vitamin C for horses although they naturally produce all the Vitamin C they need in their liver. However, horses should not eat too many oranges, as they can cause digestive problems.

fresh orange fruits on wooden table
Image Credit: Nitr, Shutterstock

What Are the Benefits of Feeding Oranges to Horses?

There are many benefits to feeding oranges to horses. They are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which is important for horses’ immune system health. They also contain other vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial and water. Additionally, oranges are a natural sugar source, which can give horses energy.

Are There Any Risks to Feeding Oranges to Horses?

As with any new food, slowly introducing oranges to horses is always best. Start by offering a small amount and see how they respond. Some horses may be allergic to oranges, so watch for any adverse reactions. You can gradually increase the amount that you offer if everything goes well.

There are no known risks associated with feeding oranges to horses, but as with any fruit, they should be fed in moderation. Too much sugar can cause digestive problems, so it is best to offer oranges as treats rather than making them a staple part of your horse’s diet.

Horse eating
Image By: Rafael Malta, Shutterstock

How Often Should You Feed Oranges to Horses?

Horses often love oranges, and they are a healthy treat. However, you should not feed them too many. A good rule of thumb is to give them no more than one to two oranges weekly.

What Other Fruits Can Horses Eat?

Horses can eat a wide variety of fruits, including apples, bananas, watermelons, and cantaloupes. But fruits that are high in sugar, like grapes and cherries, should be avoided because they can cause digestive issues.

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Conclusion

Horses can safely eat oranges, and in fact, many enjoy the taste. However, as with any fruit, it’s important to only feed oranges to horses in moderation. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain and health problems, so make sure you only offer your horse a few slices of orange at a time.

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