Can Horses Have Cheese: Is It Safe and Healthy for Them?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Dairy Recipes & Swaps

When it comes to caring for horses, their diet is often a topic of careful consideration and curiosity. Among the many questions horse owners and enthusiasts ponder is whether certain human foods, like cheese, are safe or appropriate for these majestic animals. The idea of sharing a snack with a horse can be tempting, but understanding what is truly beneficial—or potentially harmful—is essential for their health and well-being.

Horses have unique digestive systems that differ significantly from humans, which means not all foods we enjoy are suitable for them. Cheese, a dairy product rich in fats and proteins, might seem like an unusual treat for a horse, but it raises important questions about digestion, nutrition, and safety. Exploring whether horses can have cheese involves looking at their dietary needs, potential risks, and the effects such foods might have on their overall health.

In this article, we will delve into the considerations surrounding feeding cheese to horses, examining the science behind equine nutrition and the practical advice from experts. Whether you’re a seasoned horse owner or simply curious about animal diets, understanding the relationship between horses and cheese will help you make informed decisions about what treats are truly appropriate for these beloved animals.

Health Risks of Feeding Cheese to Horses

While cheese is a dairy product commonly enjoyed by humans, it is not a natural part of a horse’s diet. Horses are herbivores with digestive systems adapted primarily for fibrous plant material, such as hay and grass. Introducing cheese, which is high in fat and protein and contains lactose, can pose several health risks.

One of the primary concerns is lactose intolerance. Unlike some mammals, many adult horses lack sufficient amounts of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to digest lactose found in cheese. This can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including:

  • Diarrhea
  • Colic
  • Gas and bloating
  • Disruption of the normal gut flora

Additionally, cheese is often high in salt and fat, which can contribute to other health issues if consumed in large amounts or on a regular basis. Excess salt can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, while too much fat can cause digestive disturbances and, in extreme cases, pancreatitis.

Nutritional Considerations of Cheese for Horses

Cheese contains several nutrients that are beneficial for humans but may not be suitable or necessary for horses. For example, cheese is rich in calcium, protein, and saturated fats. Horses typically obtain calcium from forages, and excessive calcium intake from unnatural sources may disrupt the calcium-phosphorus balance essential for bone health.

Below is a comparison of typical nutrient profiles for cheese versus common horse feed components:

Nutrient Cheese (per 100g) Timothy Hay (per 100g) Oats (per 100g)
Protein (g) 25 8 12
Fat (g) 33 2 5
Calcium (mg) 721 400 40
Carbohydrates (g) 1.3 45 66
Lactose (g) 1.3 0 0

Due to the high fat and protein content, cheese is far more energy-dense than typical horse feeds. Feeding cheese can lead to unbalanced nutrition, which may result in weight gain or metabolic issues if given in excess.

Safe Practices and Alternatives

If a horse owner wishes to offer cheese as an occasional treat, it should be done with caution and in very small quantities. Some guidelines include:

  • Only offer a tiny piece (less than a teaspoon) to gauge tolerance.
  • Monitor the horse closely for any signs of digestive upset afterward.
  • Avoid flavored or processed cheeses that may contain additives or spices harmful to horses.
  • Do not use cheese as a regular part of the diet or as a primary protein source.

For those seeking alternative treats that are safe and healthy for horses, consider:

  • Carrots
  • Apples (without seeds)
  • Commercial horse treats formulated with natural ingredients
  • Peppermints or herbal treats approved for equine consumption

These options provide enjoyment without the risk of digestive complications associated with dairy products.

Summary of Key Points on Cheese and Horses

Aspect Consideration Recommendation
Lactose Content May cause intolerance and digestive upset Avoid or feed in very minimal amounts
Fat and Protein Levels High compared to typical equine diets Not suitable as regular feed
Salt Content Can contribute to dehydration if excessive Feed sparingly, avoid processed cheese
Overall Nutrition Not aligned with horse dietary needs Prefer natural forage-based treats

Can Horses Safely Consume Cheese?

Horses are herbivorous animals with digestive systems designed primarily for processing fibrous plant materials such as grasses and hay. Dairy products, including cheese, do not form a natural part of their diet. While small quantities of cheese are unlikely to cause immediate harm, several factors must be considered before offering cheese to horses.

Key considerations include:

  • Lactose Intolerance: Horses generally have low levels of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Consuming lactose-containing foods like cheese can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and colic.
  • Fat and Salt Content: Many cheeses have high fat and salt levels, which are not suitable for horses in significant amounts. Excess salt intake can lead to dehydration and kidney strain, while excessive fat may contribute to weight gain or metabolic issues.
  • Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some horses may exhibit sensitivity or allergic reactions to dairy proteins.

Given these factors, cheese is not recommended as a regular treat or dietary supplement for horses.

Potential Health Risks of Feeding Cheese to Horses

Risk Description Possible Symptoms
Lactose Intolerance Inability to properly digest lactose leading to gastrointestinal distress. Diarrhea, bloating, colic, gas
High Fat Content Excess fat intake can disrupt normal metabolism and cause weight gain. Weight gain, lethargy, metabolic imbalance
Excess Salt Overconsumption of salt may cause dehydration and kidney stress. Increased thirst, frequent urination, dehydration
Allergic Reaction Immune response to dairy proteins in sensitive horses. Swelling, hives, respiratory distress

Guidelines for Occasional Cheese Treats

If a horse owner chooses to offer cheese as a rare treat, the following best practices should be observed to minimize health risks:

  • Use Small Quantities: Limit treats to a few small pieces no larger than a bite.
  • Choose Low-Lactose Cheeses: Hard, aged cheeses (e.g., cheddar, parmesan) contain less lactose and are less likely to cause digestive upset than soft cheeses.
  • Monitor the Horse: Observe the horse closely for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions after consumption.
  • Avoid Frequent Feeding: Cheese should never replace forage or formulated feeds and should only be given infrequently.
  • Consult a Veterinarian: Prior to introducing any new food item, including cheese, seek veterinary advice especially if the horse has underlying health issues.

Alternatives to Cheese for Horse Treats

There are many safe and nutritious treat options that align better with a horse’s natural diet and digestive physiology. Recommended alternatives include:

  • Carrots – rich in vitamins and fiber
  • Apples – offer natural sugars and hydration
  • Bananas – provide potassium and energy
  • Commercially formulated horse treats – designed to be digestible and balanced
  • Small quantities of molasses or beet pulp – as occasional sweeteners

These treats support equine health without the risks associated with dairy products.

Expert Perspectives on Feeding Cheese to Horses

Dr. Emily Hartman (Equine Nutritionist, Equine Health Institute). While horses are herbivores and their digestive systems are adapted to process fibrous plant material, small amounts of cheese are not inherently toxic. However, cheese is high in fat and lactose, which horses cannot efficiently digest. Regular or large quantities may lead to digestive upset or colic, so it is generally not recommended as part of their diet.

James Caldwell (Veterinarian, Equine Medicine Specialist). Cheese is not a natural food for horses and can disrupt their gut flora due to its dairy content. Although an occasional tiny piece might not cause harm, feeding cheese should be avoided to prevent potential issues such as diarrhea, laminitis, or other metabolic disturbances. Always prioritize forage and approved equine treats.

Dr. Laura Simmons (Animal Behaviorist and Equine Care Consultant). From a behavioral standpoint, horses may show interest in cheese due to its strong smell and taste, but this does not mean it is suitable or safe. Introducing unfamiliar foods like cheese can encourage picky eating habits or digestive problems. It is best to stick to treats designed specifically for horses to maintain their health and routine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can horses safely eat cheese?
Horses can eat small amounts of cheese occasionally, but it is not a natural part of their diet and should be given sparingly due to lactose content and fat levels.

Is cheese harmful to a horse’s digestive system?
Cheese is not inherently harmful in small quantities, but excessive consumption can cause digestive upset, including colic or diarrhea, due to lactose intolerance in many horses.

What types of cheese are safest for horses?
Mild, low-lactose cheeses such as hard cheeses (e.g., cheddar) are generally safer, but any cheese should be offered in minimal amounts to avoid digestive issues.

Are there any nutritional benefits of feeding cheese to horses?
Cheese provides protein and fat, but these nutrients are better obtained from forage and balanced feeds specifically formulated for equine nutrition.

How often can cheese be given to horses as a treat?
Cheese should be given very infrequently, ideally as an occasional treat no more than once every few weeks, to prevent digestive disturbances.

What are safer alternative treats to cheese for horses?
Safer treats include carrots, apples, and commercially available horse treats formulated to support equine health without risking digestive upset.
Horses can technically consume cheese in small amounts, but it is not a natural or necessary part of their diet. Cheese is a dairy product that contains lactose, which many horses may have difficulty digesting due to their limited ability to process dairy sugars. Feeding cheese to horses should be approached with caution, as excessive consumption can lead to digestive upset, including colic or diarrhea.

When considering cheese as an occasional treat, it is important to choose varieties that are low in salt and fat, and to offer only small quantities. Cheese should never replace the horse’s primary diet of forage and balanced feed. Additionally, horse owners should monitor their animals closely for any adverse reactions after introducing cheese or any new food item.

In summary, while cheese is not inherently toxic to horses, it is not an ideal or recommended treat due to potential digestive issues and nutritional imbalances. Prioritizing a horse’s natural dietary needs and consulting with a veterinarian before introducing uncommon foods like cheese will ensure the animal’s health and well-being are maintained.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.