Horses & Blackberries

Blackberries, of the Rosacea family, aren't harmful to horses, but in fact are rich in anti-oxidants and improve the horse's metabolic system by diminishing the number of free radicals that may harm the DNA.

  1. Fruit

    • Dr. Ihor Basko, a veterinarian who is dedicated to equine nutrition, recommends that horses have a variety of fruit in their diets. The fruit must be fresh and clean, totally exempt from any pesticide or fungicide remains.

    Blackberries in a Horse's Diet

    • Blackberries are rich in vitamin C, and horses, especially older horses, tend to have a deficiency of this essential vitamin.

    Vitamin C

    • Vitamin C is an antioxidant that works with vitamin A and vitamin E to protect the tissues of your horse's body, especially those of the respiratory system. It also helps keep your horse's teeth and bones healthy.

    Warning

    • If your horse eats too many blackberries, he may experience severe diarrhea. Do not allow your horse to eat more than 10 blackberries per day.

    Branches

    • Keep blackberry bushes out of reach of your horse so the plants' thorns do not injure her skin or mouth tissue.