Can Horses Eat Candy Canes: Yay or Neigh?

As a horse breeder, you may wonder whether it’s safe to give your horse candy canes as a treat during the holiday season. While it’s natural to want to spoil your horse, it’s important to ensure that any treats you give them are safe and won’t cause harm. In this article, we’ll dive into the question “can horses eat candy canes?” and explore which candies are safe for your equine friend.

Which Candies are Safe for Horses?

When it comes to treats for horses, it’s best to stick with options that are specifically formulated for them, such as horse cookies or sugar cubes. However, if you want to treat your horse to some human candy, there are a few options that are safe in moderation:

Peppermints: Peppermint candies are safe for horses, as long as they don’t contain any harmful ingredients like xylitol.

Hard candies: Hard candies like Jolly Ranchers and Lifesavers are safe for horses to consume in moderation, as long as they don’t contain any harmful ingredients like chocolate or nuts.

Candy canes: While candy canes are technically safe for horses to eat, it’s important to note that they contain high levels of sugar, which can lead to digestive upset or weight gain if fed in excess.

Take Care for Xylitol

It’s important to note that some candies contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which can be highly toxic to horses (as well as dogs). Xylitol can cause a sudden release of insulin, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and liver failure. If you’re unsure whether a candy contains xylitol, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to your horse altogether.

FAQS about Horses and Candy Canes

Can horses eat candy canes with wrappers on? No, horses should never be given candy canes with wrappers on, as the wrappers can cause digestive blockages and potentially lead to colic.

Can horses eat chocolate candy canes? No, chocolate is toxic to horses and should never be fed to them.

Can horses eat candy canes every day? While candy canes are technically safe for horses to eat in moderation, they contain high levels of sugar and should not be given every day.

Clearing Up the Confusion

While horses can technically eat candy canes, it’s important to remember that they should only be given as an occasional treat in moderation. It’s also crucial to avoid candies that contain harmful ingredients like xylitol and chocolate. When in doubt, stick with treats specifically planned for horses to ensure their safety and well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s important to be mindful of what treats you give your horse, especially for candy canes and other sugary snacks. While it’s okay to indulge your horse once in a while, it’s important to prioritize their health and safety above all else. By following these guidelines and sticking to safe treat options, you can keep your equine friend happy and healthy during the holiday season and beyond.


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Founder and Chief Editor of Horsesbuy.com. He has worked in the equine industry for over 10 years and is passionate about providing horse owners and enthusiasts the best resources and advice. His mission is to ensure everyone has access to reliable...