🎃 Feeding Pumpkin to Horses: What's Safe, What’s Risky in 2025 🐴⚠️

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Pumpkin is a fall favorite—but is it safe for your horse? As treats go, pumpkin may seem harmless, even festive, but in the world of equine nutrition, not everything healthy for humans is safe for horses. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and special considerations for feeding pumpkin to horses in 2025. 🧠🍂

🧪 Is Pumpkin Safe for Horses?

In general, yes, pumpkin is safe for most horses in small quantities. According to equine nutritionist Dr. Clair Thunes, Ph.D., pumpkin is:

• ✅ Low in sugar and starch (low glycemic index)
• ✅ High in fiber, making it digestible for horses
• 🚫 High in potassium, which is not ideal for all horses

So while it might seem like a fun seasonal snack, pumpkin is not universally safe—especially for horses with specific conditions. ⚠️

🚫 Horses That Should NOT Eat Pumpkin

1. 🧬 Horses with Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP)

Pumpkin is high in potassium, which can trigger dangerous muscle symptoms in horses with HYPP. These horses require strict low-potassium diets and should avoid pumpkin entirely. ❌

2. 🧁 Overweight or EMS Horses

While the glycemic index is low, pumpkin treats are often sweetened with molasses, bran, or oats. Horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or insulin resistance should only receive unsweetened, plain pumpkin in very small quantities—if at all. 🧬⚖️

3. 🐎 Horses with GI Sensitivities or Colic History

Horses have sensitive digestive tracts. Adding unfamiliar foods like pumpkin—even if non-toxic—can disrupt microbial balance and potentially lead to colic. When in doubt, don’t risk it. 🚫💥

✅ Horses That May Benefit

Horses that are:

• ✅ In good body condition
• ✅ Not insulin-resistant
• ✅ Without metabolic or GI issues

…may enjoy a few tablespoons of fresh, plain pumpkin as an occasional treat. 🎃🥄

🍽️ How to Feed Pumpkin Safely

• 🥄 Feed no more than 1/4 to 1/2 cup per serving
• 🎃 Remove the stem (choking hazard)
• 🔥 Cooked or raw pumpkin is okay—but no seasonings, salt, or butter!
• 🚫 Avoid pumpkin pie mix (loaded with sugar and spices)

Pro tip: Freeze small pumpkin cubes and use them as enrichment or rewards on cool days. ❄️🐴

🎮 Pumpkin for Enrichment

Dr. Thunes also suggests using whole pumpkins as enrichment toys in the stall or paddock—just be sure to:

• 🔪 Remove the stem
• 🧹 Keep it clean and check for mold
• 🎯 Monitor for aggressive chewing or ingestion of rind

⚠️ The Big Risk: Colic

Horses thrive on consistency. Any abrupt change—even with fruits or vegetables—can upset the GI tract. If your horse has never had pumpkin before, introduce it gradually and in small quantities.

Some horses may show signs of digestive upset, especially if pumpkin is overfed or given with sugary mix-ins. When in doubt, skip it or call your vet. 🛑🩺

📲 Ask A Vet Before Feeding "Human Food"

Before giving your horse any non-traditional food—even fruits or veggies—consult a veterinarian. Visit AskAVet.com or use the Ask A Vet App to double-check safe treat options, dietary risks, and feeding advice for metabolic horses. 📱🐴

Dr Duncan Houston and the Ask A Vet team can guide you with custom nutrition advice and safe seasonal treat tips. 💬🧠

📋 Final Thoughts

In 2025, pumpkin can be a fun, nutritious, and low-risk treat for many horses—but not all. If your horse has EMS, HYPP, or GI issues, steer clear or proceed with extreme caution. When used thoughtfully, pumpkin can enrich your horse’s routine—but don’t let seasonal fun lead to colic or complications. 🎃🐴

Need a printable “What Can My Horse Eat?” guide? Visit AskAVet.com to download it now 🧺📄