Can horses eat onions?
Quick Answer
No
Onions are toxic to horses and can cause serious health problems.
What Is It?
Onions are a type of vegetable that belong to the Allium family. They are known for their strong flavor and are commonly used in cooking.
How to Tell
Signs of onion poisoning in horses may include loss of appetite, depression, discolored urine, anemia, and weakness.
Why It Can Be Risky
Feeding onions to horses carries significant risks due to the presence of a compound called N-propyl disulfide.
N-propyl disulfide can cause damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia, a condition where the body destroys its own red blood cells faster than it can produce new ones. In severe cases, this can be fatal.
Safe Alternatives
Safe alternatives to onions for horses include carrots, apples, and hay cubes. Always introduce new foods gradually and under the guidance of a veterinarian.