Why Veterinarians Say Not To Feed Horses Grass Clippings

As spring arrives and pastures flourish, veterinarians are warning horse owners to avoid feeding grass clippings to their animals. Though it may seem harmless, grass clippings—especially when tightly packed—can ferment quickly, producing gases that may lead to colic or even fatal stomach ruptures. These clippings can also disrupt the delicate balance of microbes in a horse’s digestive system. Dr. Lucy Sukovaty notes another risk: lawn clippings may contain pesticides, herbicides, or toxic plants like Japanese yew or rhododendron, which can be deadly if ingested.

In addition, short yard grass is often less nutritious than pasture grass, offering little benefit to grazing animals. The safest option, veterinarians advise, is to let horses graze naturally in their pastures, where grass is healthier and free of harmful contaminants. By avoiding clippings and staying mindful of lawn treatments, horse owners can protect their animals from serious and potentially fatal health issues.