How to Hand Feed a Horse

Horses often will munch on a treat brought to them from beyond the corral, but they're not always allowed to eat everything that comes their way. Too much outside food can upset a horse's diet. Some foods are okay for horses and some are not. Do a little research before handing off the contents of your bag lunch to the grey mare in the neighbor's paddock.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get the owner's permission. Many horse owners want their horses to be grazing and don't want them to be given treats. Make sure the owner is okay with your offering.

2. Make sure you have the right kind of food. Fruits and vegetables are generally a safe bet, especially vegetables like carrots and corn. Human treats, like sweets and snack foods, should be avoided.

3. Use moderation. The horse can probably eat as much as you give her, but the horse's diet is up to the owner. If you are the owner, you should research what percentage of the diet should be from grazing. Know the limits for what should be hand fed.

4. Feed the horse with your palm flat, the food lying in your hand. A horse can easily mistake your fingers for food. If you keep your hand flat, the horse should be able to pluck the food out of your palm without nipping you.

5. Don't try anything funny. Playing tricks by trying to keep food away from the horse or putting your hand in the horse's mouth can have disastrous results. The horse is not a toy. Remember that the horse can bite and kick, and a horse kick can kill or seriously injure you.

Resources

• Owner's reasons
• Feeding with carrots