![\"Strawberry](\"https:\/\/thehorsesguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Strawberries-on-a-wooden-background.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nHow Can Horses Benefit from Eating Strawberries?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Below are some benefits horses derive from eating strawberries;<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C. The vitamin is essential for horses because it helps with wound healing, bone growth, and repairing cartilage. <\/li>
- The fruit is also an antioxidant that can help protect the body against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and DNA, leading to inflammation and disease.<\/li>
- The antioxidants in strawberries can help prevent or slow down the effects of free radical damage. They are also rich in polyphenols, which support immunity. It is also great for managing weight<\/a>, digestion, and cardiovascular issues.<\/li>
- Strawberries are a good source of dietary fiber, which is vital for horses because it helps with digestion and prevents colic. Fiber also helps keep the gut healthy by providing food for the beneficial bacteria that live there.<\/li>
- Strawberries contain a small amount of calcium, vital for horses because they need calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth.<\/li>
- They are rich in magnesium and potassium, which help reduce high blood pressure. It also aids in muscle function of contraction and relaxation.<\/li>
- Strawberries are juicy and have a lot of water that can be a source of hydration during hot days.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
How Many Strawberries Can a Horse Eat?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
As mentioned before, horses can only eat up to two cups of strawberries per week. This is equivalent to 8-16 fresh strawberries, depending on the size of the fruit. Do not overfeed your horse with strawberries to avoid stomach upset or diarrhea. Remember to slice the strawberries before feeding your horse to prevent choking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you include fresh strawberries in horse food, do it in the morning before the usual feeding time. It will help minimize the risk of them getting sick. If you are feeding it strawberries for the first time, observe any unusual reaction on the horse. It is important to consult your vet if your horse has other health issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Handful](\"https:\/\/thehorsesguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Handful-of-Fresh-Strawberries.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nPotential Strawberry Hazards to Equines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Strawberries can be a good fruit source for horses if consumed in moderation. Too much intake can cause illnesses to the horse. Some horses get allergic reactions when they eat strawberries. You have to be careful and observe when you introduce strawberries to your horse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The main harmful compound found in strawberries is oxalic acid. This compound can bind calcium and other minerals in the gut, preventing absorption. It can lead to deficiencies in these minerals and can cause problems such as diarrhea, weight loss, and even renal failure in severe cases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oxalic acid can also be directly irritating to animals’ mouths, esophagus, stomach, and intestines. The ingestion can irritate these organs and cause pain when eating. It can also cause sores in the mouth. Ingestion can also result in excessive drooling and colic symptoms such as sweating and restlessness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Fresh](\"https:\/\/thehorsesguide.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/Fresh-Berries.jpg\")
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