Foods Horses Can Eat But Humans Cannot

Horses and humans have different digestive systems and dietary needs, leading to a variety of foods that horses can consume but humans cannot. Understanding these differences is crucial for both the health and wellbeing of horses and for ensuring that human safety is not compromised.

What Humans Can and Cannot Eat

While horses graze on grasses, hay, and grains, humans cannot safely consume these without proper preparation. Here, we outline some key differences in the diet.

Safe Foods for Horses But Not for Humans

Grass and Hay: The primary staple for horses, grasses provide the necessary fiber and nutrients. Humans, on the other hand, lack the necessary digestive enzymes to process raw grass safely, and raw grass can be difficult to digest and may cause indigestion or even poisoning if consumed in large quantities. Raw Oats: Horses can consume oats in their natural state, but humans cannot. Raw oats are not digested efficiently by humans and can lead to digestive issues. In contrast, cooked oats are a healthy breakfast option for humans. Lupins, Copra Meal, and Full-Fat Cooked Soybeans: These proteins are beneficial for horses during specific conditions but can be toxic to humans. They are rich in protein sources but must be prepared to ensure safety for horses. For humans, these foods can cause allergic reactions and digestive issues. Seaweed Meal: Used to supplement iodine and minerals in equine diets, up to half a cup of seaweed meal can be safely given to horses. However, excessive amounts can yield high levels of vitamin A, which is toxic to humans. Herbs: Many herbs are beneficial and safe for horses, including dandelion, rosehips, comfrey, and parsley. However, certain herbs can be toxic to humans, such as tansy and helminthospermum macropodum, commonly known as "cowbane." For instance, dandelion can cause digestive issues in humans if consumed in large quantities.

Supplements and Vitamins

Supplements like balanced calcium-phosphate mixes are often necessary for horses, especially in subtropical and tropical areas where grasses can contain phytates that inhibit calcium absorption. These supplements can prevent conditions like Bighead, a form of osteoporosis in horses. However, most vitamin supplements are unnecessary for humans unless they have been diagnosed with specific deficiencies.

Significant Warnings for Humans

There are significant risks associated with consuming certain plants that are safe for horses. These include toxic weeds and plants that can be lethal to horses and should be kept out of their pastures. Poisoning can occur suddenly or over time, often with no cure and leading to a slow and painful death. Some examples include: Castor Oil Plant: Even a small bite can be lethal. Crofton Weed: Consumed over a few weeks, it can cause slow death. Flatweed/False Dandelion: Causes staggers and is lethal over several years if ingested. Bracken Fern: Leads to hepatitis and liver poisoning over months to years.

These plants should be recognized and removed from horse pastures to ensure their safety.

Conclusion

While horses thrive on grasses, hays, and certain grains, it is important for humans to ensure they do not inadvertently ingest these foods. The digestive systems and nutritional needs of horses and humans are vastly different, and understanding these differences can prevent both accidental poisoning and unnecessary dietary restrictions. Always handle horse-related products with care and educate yourself on the risks to ensure the health and safety of both horses and humans.