Can Horses Eat Crab Apples? – Here Is The Answer!
Well, howdy equestrians! I know, you’re concerned about feeding crab apples to your horse and that’s why you are here. Let me share some insight.
Mane says no, but let me tell ya, horses sure do love ’em! But, hold your horses, ’cause there are some more facts.
While a few crab apples won’t harm your horse, feeding them in large quantities could lead to some colic trouble. Also, you gotta be mindful of their sour side effects.
Too many apples of any kind, including those tangy crabby ones, can cause some tummy woes. And mind you, apple seeds contain cyanide, a really nasty toxin for most animals if the amount is large.
But in general, almost any type of apple including crab, is safe for horses.
So, you can go easy on crab apple treats in limited quantities and keep your horse happy!
Are Crab Apples Good For Horses?
Let’s see the nutritional aspects of these petite fruits and explore why they can be beneficial for your horse’s diet.
Crab Apple Nutrition Table
Nutrient | Amount per 1 Crab Apple (1.2 oz or 35g) |
---|---|
Calories | 18 |
Carbohydrates | 5 grams |
Fiber | 1 gram |
Crab Apple Benefits as Horse Diet
Low-Calorie Option
Crab apples are a relatively low-calorie treat, with only 18 calories per fruit. For horses on a restricted diet or those needing to watch their weight, these small snacks can provide a tasty indulgence without contributing to excessive calorie intake.
Natural Source of Carbohydrates
The 5 grams of carbohydrates present in a single crab apple offer a quick and natural source of energy for horses. This can be especially beneficial during training sessions or light physical activities, providing a burst of vitality to keep them motivated.
Digestive Health
The 1 gram of fiber found in a crab apple is advantageous for a horse’s digestive system. Fiber aids in maintaining proper gut motility, preventing potential issues like colic and promoting overall gastrointestinal well-being.
Palatability and Enriching Bond
Horses, like us, appreciate flavorful treats, and crab apples are often relished for their tangy taste. Offering these fruits in moderation can be an enriching way to strengthen the bond between you and your horse during training or simply as a loving gesture.
Variety and Mental Stimulation
Introducing different treats, like crab apples, into a horse’s diet can provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom. As long as they are fed responsibly, these treats can add excitement to their daily routine.
Disadvantages Of Feeding Crab Apples In Large Amounts To Horses
Here are some drawbacks of feeding large quantities of crab apples to your horses –
Gastrointestinal Upset
Feeding crab apples to horses in large quantities can lead to significant disadvantages, primarily concerning gastrointestinal upset. These small fruits, when consumed excessively, can wreak havoc on a horse’s digestive system.
Crab apples, like other apples, contain natural sugars and carbohydrates. When consumed in large amounts, these sugars can overwhelm the horse’s digestive tract, leading to fermentation and gas production.
Excessive gas build-up can cause discomfort and bloating, potentially triggering colic – a painful and potentially life-threatening condition for horses.
Nutritional Imbalance
Another disadvantage of overindulging horses in crab apples is the risk of causing a nutritional imbalance in their diet.
While crab apples do offer some nutritional benefits, they are not a complete and balanced food source for horses.
Relying too heavily on crab apples can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which are crucial for a horse’s overall health and well-being.
Cyanide Toxicity
Crab apple seeds, like those of other apple varieties, contain small amounts of cyanide.
While the seeds are typically small and inconspicuous, consuming them in large quantities could pose a risk of cyanide toxicity to horses.
While horses are generally less susceptible to cyanide poisoning compared to some other animals, excessive consumption of seeds, especially if they are crushed or chewed, could still lead to adverse effects.
Weight Management Issues
Feeding crab apples excessively can also contribute to weight management problems in horses.
These fruits, though nutritious in limited amounts, can be calorie-dense. Overfeeding them may result in weight gain, which can be detrimental to horses, especially those prone to metabolic issues like insulin resistance or equine metabolic syndrome.
How to Prepare and Feed Crab Apples for Your Horse – Step By Step
Preparing crab apples for your horse can be a simple and easy process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure a safe and delightful treat for your equine companion –
Step 1: Harvest Fresh Crab Apples
Look for fresh, ripe crab apples that are free from bruises, mold, or any signs of spoilage. It’s best to pick them directly from a tree or purchase them from a trusted source to ensure their quality and safety.
Step 2: Wash Thoroughly
Before feeding crab apples to your horse, give them a good rinse under cool, running water. This step helps remove any dirt, debris, or residues that might be present on the skin.
Step 3: Remove Crab Apple Seeds (Optional)
If you prefer to remove the seeds from the crab apples, gently cut the apples in half and scoop out the seeds and core using a knife or spoon. Removing the seeds can reduce the risk of cyanide toxicity and help prevent potential digestive issues in your horse.
Step 4: Slice into Horse-Friendly Pieces
Once you’ve removed the seeds (if desired), use a sharp knife to cut the crab apples into smaller, horse-friendly pieces. Remove the stems and any damaged parts before offering them to your equine friend.
Step 5: Not Offer It Daily
Offer crab apples as occasional rewards or a special addition to your horse’s diet, rather than a daily meal replacement.
Step 6: Your Horse’s Reaction is a Fact
Introduce crab apples slowly to your horse’s diet and observe how they react. Some horses may have sensitivities or allergies to certain fruits, so it’s essential to be cautious, especially if it’s their first time trying crab apples.
Step 7: Dispose of Leftovers
If your horse doesn’t finish all the crab apples, remove any uneaten pieces from the feeding area promptly. Leaving them out too long can attract pests or cause spoilage, which may be harmful to your horse.
Let’s End!
So, now you know, you can feed your horses crab apples but not in huge amounts, even not daily.
Rather, you can use this sour fruit as an occasional treat for your four-footed friend.
Wishing good health for your horses!