Preparation
Feed fresh snap peas or snow peas whole. If feeding shelled green peas, mix them into a mash.
Quantity
A small handful (half a cup) per day.
Notes
Sweet and nutritious, but avoid feeding the actual pea vines from the garden.
Nutritional Benefits
* Surprisingly high in healthy plant protein.
* Packed with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron.
* The pods provide excellent, digestible fiber.
Safe Varieties
1. Fresh sugar snap peas - The absolute best, crunchy pod and all.
2. Fresh snow peas - Flat and crisp, a great quick treat.
3. Fresh shelled green peas - Safe, but easily dropped out of their mouths.
4. Frozen peas - Thaw them slightly and mix into a hot mash.
5. Canned peas - Avoid entirely. They are mushy and loaded with sodium.
Feeding Guide
Average adult horse: A handful of pods or shelled peas.
Ponies: 3 or 4 snap pea pods.
Seniors: Thawed frozen peas are very soft and easy to gum.
Positive Signs
* Happy, loud snapping noises when eating the pods.
* Sweet breath.
* Excellent digestion.
Negative Signs
* Spitting the tiny round peas everywhere because they can't grab them with their lips.
* Mild gas if you feed an unusually large amount.
Preparation Science
Feeding the peas inside the pod is not only easier for the horse to grasp, but the pod itself provides valuable structural carbohydrates that aid in gut motility.
Enrichment Science
Biting through a taut snap pea pod provides a very satisfying acoustic "pop" that rewards the horse's chewing behavior.
Play Ideas
Easy: Hand-feed sugar snap peas one by one as training rewards.
Medium: Mix frozen peas into a warm bran mash for a texture contrast.
Hard: Scatter pods in their hay so they have to forage for the sweet green treats.
FAQ
Q: Can my horse eat the pea plant out of my garden?
A: No! Only feed the pods/peas. The stems and vines of many pea varieties can be toxic.
Q: Do I need to pop the peas out of the pod?
A: Nope, the pod is totally safe, sweet, and highly fibrous.
Alternatives
* Carrots offer a bigger crunch and are easier to handle.
* Berries are sweeter and softer.
* Green beans are similar but slightly tougher to chew.
Risks & Disclaimer
Peas and pea pods are a fun, healthy treat. Just stick to the fresh pods and never let your horse graze on the actual pea vines in your garden.
