Persimmons are uncommon fruits in the United States – but can horses eat persimmons? Learn about their health benefits and warnings.
They are known as fall fruit. They look like a tomato taste like honey, but they are actually a berry. If you have ever been curious about whether or not your horse can eat it, keep reading. This guide is just for you.
What Are Persimmons?
Persimmons are the berries that grow on the tree Genus Diospyros. They vary in size ranging from 0.6 inches up to 3.5 inches.
They are from Asia, and there are two major types of them, namely Fuyu and Hachiya. They are shaped differently and have different tastes. Hachiya is pale, heart, or acorn-shaped, and Fuyu is orange and shaped like a tomato.
Humans love eating persimmons when soft and ripe, cooking them, and drying the fruit.
Can Horses Eat Persimmons?
So, can horses eat persimmons? No. That’s the short answer. It’s one of the most dangerous things to feed your horse, especially the pit and seeds, since these can block the horse’s intestine.
Some people may claim that the persimmon itself isn’t an issue as long as you take out the seed. However, veterinarians would advise owners asking, “can horses safely eat a whole persimmon?” to be on the side of caution, never even try giving persimmons to your horses as the seeds can be easily accessible to them. Persimmon seeds are particularly dangerous to horses, so keep those persimmons to yourself as often as possible.
If you don’t want your horse to have intestinal obstruction or inflammation and failure, don’t feed them persimmon seeds. Additionally, veterinarians recommend not risking feeding them persimmon with seeds removed simply because human error could have you end up feeding them seeds accidentally. Feed them bananas, apples or blueberries instead.
Are Persimmons Good for Horses?
Persimmons are a great source of vitamin C as well as vitamin A. These vitamins are beneficial for a horse’s immune system and eyes.
Since this fruit tastes so sweet and has a juicy texture, horses love them. You should be careful with how much your horse eat since eating too much could give them an upset stomach. You should also never let your horse eat the pit or seeds.
Are Persimmons Poisonous to horses?
The fruit itself is Not Poisonous to horses, but the pit or seed can be very harmful.
Persimmon pits can cause intestinal blockage. Signs of a blocked intestine include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Drooling or burping
- Abdominal Pain and bloating
If you notice any of those symptoms in your horse and you know they ate a persimmon, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can Horses Eat Persimmons Skin
Yes, it is safe for horses to eat persimmon skin. You don’t have to peel it before giving it to your horse. Just make sure and remove the pits first.
There is nothing toxic in the skin of persimmons. It is safe to eat.
Can Horses Eat Persimmons Leaves?
Most humans use persimmon leaves in tea. If you own persimmon trees, make sure you do not let them eat the leaves. They won’t harm your horse, but eating too much fiber can upset their stomach.
A good rule to follow when it comes to leaves and leafy greens is to allow them to consume the same foods that you would consume yourself.
Can Horses Eat Fresh Persimmons?
Yes, it is safe for horses to eat fresh persimmons. Only give them a small amount each day to avoid digestion problems such as diarrhea.
Can Horses Eat Fuyu Persimmons?
Fuyu persimmons are the orange-pumpkin kind that are shaped more like tomatoes. They are the most common type of persimmons and taste similar to dates and pear with a very sweet flavor.
Horses can eat Fuyu persimmons, just protect them from over-indulging in them.
Can Horses Have Cooked Persimmons?
Yes, horses can eat cooked persimmons. Be careful with what they are cooked with. There are lots of spices that are toxic to horses. For example, cinnamon is safe for horses but nutmeg is toxic.
Too much sugar can negatively impact a horse’s blood sugar levels and increase their risk for obesity, heart problems, and diabetes. It’s best to give horse fresh persimmons without any added sugars.
Can Horses Eat Dried Persimmons?
Yes, Horses can eat dried persimmons. The danger you must watch out for is how much they consume. Dry fruit is high in sugars, even if it is natural sugar.
Dried persimmons are rich in vitamins and healthy alternatives to artificial sweets.
Recap: Can Horses Persimmons?
Persimmons have a very alluring sweet flavor that humans and horses both love! If you want to give some to your horse, be careful to remove the seeds and pit first since these can cause intestinal blockage.
If your horse shows any signs of poor health after eating persimmons, contact your veterinarian.
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