Horses can eat oranges. Vitamin C from oranges enters a horse’s body like in a human’s body. Hence, horses can have a robust immune system. They also enjoy the tasty, tangy taste of oranges!
Since citrus fruits like oranges are my favorite, I made them as a treat for my horses. Aside from sharing the food choices safe for animals, it’s a chance to boost their immune system.
Horses can eat the whole orange as long as the preparation is correct. This article ensures that you take the proper steps in feeding your horse oranges. So, these animals can get the health benefits that these fruits offer.
Are Oranges Safe For Horses?
Oranges are safe for horses if eaten in moderation. They’re used as one of the palatants in a study that aims to enhance the production of equine feed. I’m happy to know that these fruits make my horses healthier for the reasons listed below.
Loaded With Vitamin C
Since orange is a citrus fruit, Vitamin C immediately comes to mind. You’re correct, as 53.2 grams of Vitamin C is in 100 grams of oranges. This vitamin strengthens the immune system by activating the formation of antibodies. Also, oranges are free of cholesterol.
Oranges have flavonoid and beta-carotene . These are the factors that make these fruits excellent antioxidants. They repair any damaged cells in the body of an equine. As an antioxidant, an orange can cut oxidative stress as well.
Soluble Fiber and Citrus Pulp to Improve Digestion
Fiber forms a substance that aids digestion. It happens because of its ability to absorb water. An orange contains 14% of fiber.
The pulps of these fruits are not only a fantastic energy source. It also helps the horses digest carbohydrate fractions and other nutrients. Digestion becomes more manageable with these pulps!
The Wonders of Hesperidin
Hesperidin in oranges is a natural bioflavonoid. It works with blood flow when a horse engages in strenuous activities. Moreover, it also lessens any bleeding that occurs in blood capillaries. This ability is an excellent help for horses with lungs that bleed during exercise.
Can Horses Eat Tangerines
Both oranges and tangerines are from the citrus family. The latter is smaller than the former. Tangerines are dark reddish-orange, and some orange varieties have the same color too.
Tangerines are generally sweeter than oranges. But you can find sweet orange varieties. Despite the differences, these fruits are nutritious. They have similar content, so horses can eat tangerines like they consume oranges.
Oranges have more Vitamin C, fiber, and calories than tangerines. The latter has more carbohydrates, folate, and Vitamin A.
Can Horses Eat Whole Oranges?
Horses can eat whole oranges, but they may choke. They may also find it difficult to swallow a round fruit. To prevent hazards, slice the oranges into small pieces before feeding them to your horse.
Can Horses Have Orange Peels?
Horses can eat bananas with peels, as well as orange peels. Every part of oranges is safe for horse consumption. The only deal is whether they like the taste of orange peel. You’ll find out when you let them have the taste of the peel.
The goodness of orange peels can convince every horse owner to feed them to their horses. Here are their positive effects on the equine’s well-being.
Quick Recovery
Some horses take part in strenuous activities. They can take a rest, but the orange peel helps them to recover in no time. This effect also includes cardiovascular recovery.
Boosting Immunity
It’s not only the flesh that contains Vitamin C but the peel. Don’t put it to waste if your horse likes it. It can boost the immune system of your horses without a doubt.
Polyphenols, Oil, and Anti-cancer Properties
It’s impressive that orange pees have tons of essential substances. It has a decent amount of polyphenol that can protect the horse from various diseases. The essential oil in orange peel doesn’t only boost the immune system. It has anti-inflammatory effects too.
Orange peel has anti-cancer properties because of the chemical called limonene. This chemical can also counter the development of tumors.
As you can see, orange peel has a lot to offer for the health and well-being of horses. Yet, some horses can’t bear the orange peels’ bitter taste and pungent smell. You can let your horse try it first and continue giving it to them if they show fondness for it.
Can Horses Have Orange Juice?
Horses can have orange juice. In this part, we’re talking about the fresh juice as it’s a big ‘NO’ for horses to drink soft drinks. Beverages that have propylene glycol are bad for horses. They can cause colic, diarrhea, and respiratory complications.
Serve your horse the right amount of fresh orange juice. Excessive intake causes digestive problems, especially for horses with Hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HPP).
Are Oranges Toxic To Horses?
Oranges are not toxic to horses. But, some things will compel you not to include it in your horses’ diet. Those that suffer from metabolic-related diseases must not eat oranges. The sugar and potassium content of these fruits can trigger their conditions.
How to Prepare Oranges For Horses?
You may or not include the orange peels. It all depends on the preference of your horse. Here are some tips.
Without the Peel
Start with washing the oranges. Remove the rind, then cut the fruits into small pieces. You can serve this treat to your horses right away. It’s also OK to freeze them first to make a frozen treat.
You can also mix the orange slices with bran wash. Again, keep an eye on the serving so your horse won’t have colic.
With the Peel
You must be thorough when washing the oranges if your horses like the peel. To ensure that you remove all the harmful chemicals, clean the fruits with hot water.
The peel has a hard texture, so I recommend cutting them into strips. You can do this even when introducing orange peel to your horses but only a little. It’s OK if you prefer to cut the whole fruit with the peel.
How Many Oranges Can a Horse Eat?
You have to limit the serving to two oranges a week. A lavish amount can lead to health problems.
Conclusion
The massive amount of Vitamin C in oranges is enough reason to give these fruits as a treat to your horse. This vitamin is not only an immune booster. It’s also an antioxidant that repairs any cell and tissue damage.
Horses will also enjoy the tangy taste of oranges. Aside from cutting them into pieces with or without peel, you can also serve fresh orange juice. You have the liberty to choose the method of doing but ensure it’s in moderation.