Let’s face it: often, medication just doesn’t taste good - no matter how hard we try to mask it. Giving meds can be challenging for any horse owner - especially when doing it solo. Treats can help turn this necessary process into a more positive experience.
For example, antibiotic powder gets much more appealing when mixed with applesauce, and your senior partner might not even notice his arthritis pill if it’s hidden in a carrot!
Alternatively, you can use treats as a training reward for taking meds willingly, especially for something like dewormer paste. For horses that like to resemble giraffes at the sight of medication, a treat afterward helps reward them for handling an otherwise unpleasant experience.
Everything in Moderation
Treats have the potential to be far more than indulgences, they can be valuable tools to enhance your horse’s life through lower stress, more enjoyable training moments, and even improve times of illness and injury.
Like always, be mindful of what you offer. While sugar cubes and candies may seem tempting, they can be detrimental to your horse’s health if given too frequently (especially for those sensitive to sugar). Give those labels a look, and opt for digestive-friendly treats that are forage or fiber-based. You’ll be surprised how well regular alfalfa cubes or even a handful of your horse’s regular feed can work as a motivator or reward.
*If adjustments to your feed program have led to mood, manure, or appetite changes, your friend may need help rebalancing their gut. Check out 3 Signs You Might Need A Probiotic for tips to help them reset.