Why Do Horses Like Sugar Cubes?

Many horse owners give their horses treats and rewards, and sugar cubes are a classic choice. But should horses really eat sugar?

Horses like sugar cubes for the same reason people like candy: they taste sweet. A few cubes are fine for most healthy horses, but horses with insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome or a history of laminitis shouldn't have them.

Sugar cubes add calories but no useful nutrition, so keep them as an occasional treat.

Also see: Can Goats Eat Sugar Cubes?

Do Horses Eat Sugar Cubes?

Yes. Horses eat sugar cubes readily, and many owners use them as treats.

They are not the healthiest treat, and they can be risky for horses with metabolic problems.

Are Sugar Cubes Safe For Horses?

For most healthy horses, a few sugar cubes are safe. They are small and dissolve easily.

Feeding lots of sugary treats can add unwanted weight, and treats should never replace a balanced, forage-based diet.

Are Sugar Cubes Healthy For Horses?

No. A sugar cube is just compressed sugar (sucrose), with no vitamins or minerals.

Too many sugary treats add calories and can contribute to weight gain. Many owners prefer low-sugar treats or small pieces of carrot or apple.

How Many Sugar Cubes Can A Horse Eat Daily?

There is no official limit. Equine nutritionist Clair Thunes, PhD, writes in The Horse that each cube weighs about 4 grams, and three or four cubes are unlikely to cause a significant glucose spike in a healthy horse.

Overweight horses and horses with metabolic problems should not get sugar cubes at all. Ask your vet what treats are safe for your horse.

Are Sugar Cubes Unsafe For Some Horses?

Yes. Sugar is absorbed as glucose and fructose, and horses with insulin resistance release more insulin than normal to clear it.

The Horse notes that high circulating insulin increases the risk of laminitis. Avoid sugar cubes for horses with insulin resistance, equine metabolic syndrome, PSSM or a history of laminitis.

Can You Use Sugar Cubes For Training Horses?

Yes, in small amounts. Treats can reward wanted behavior, but they should still be limited for healthy horses.

Hand-feeding treats can teach some horses to nip or mug people for food. Feed treats from a flat palm, and stop if your horse becomes pushy.

Here are a few ways a small treat can help with training.

Putting Bridles

Some horses resist the bridle. A small reward after the bridle is on can help the horse see it as a positive thing.

Ear Shy Horses

Many horses dislike having their ears handled. Rewarding calm behavior during haltering or clipping can help.

Positive Reinforcement Training Treats

You can use a treat to reward simple behaviors, like coming when called or standing quietly.

Where Can You Get Sugar Cubes?

Most grocery stores sell sugar cubes, and they are easy to order online. Check that the only ingredient is sugar.

Possible Effects Of Sugar Cubes On Horses

In healthy horses, a few sugar cubes should not cause problems. Whenever you try a new treat, watch your horse for any change in behavior or weight.

If your horse has a metabolic condition, or you notice weight gain or signs of sore feet, stop the treats and call your vet.

Things You Should Remember

When giving your horse sugar cubes, remember:

• Feed all treats only in moderation.
• Give a healthy horse no more than a few sugar cubes a day.
• Watch your horse for any changes after giving sugar cubes.
• Never give sugar cubes to a horse with insulin resistance, EMS or a history of laminitis.
• Never give your horse sugar cubes when they have a bit in their mouths.
• Ask a vet if something seems wrong after giving sugar cubes.
• Use treats in training sparingly, and stop if your horse starts nipping.

Final Verdict

Sugar cubes are a popular horse treat, but they offer no nutrition. A few cubes are fine for healthy horses, and horses with insulin problems or laminitis should not have them.

Sources

• Sugar and Peppermint Treats: Not Safe for All Horses, The Horse