Can Horses Get Drunk? The Surprising Truth About Alcohol and Equines

The scent of fermenting apples wafts through the barn as a curious horse noses an overturned bucket of cider. Could a few licks leave him tipsy? 🍏 While horses might seem sturdy enough to handle a sip of something strong, the truth about alcohol and equines is far more surprising—and potentially dangerous.

Can Horses Get Drunk? The Short Answer

Yes, horses can get drunk—but it’s rare, risky, and never intentional. Unlike humans, equines lack the enzymes needed to efficiently metabolize alcohol, meaning even small amounts can lead to toxicity. A horse stumbling after raiding a fermented grain bin isn’t just clumsy; he’s likely suffering from alcohol poisoning. Yet, let’s be honest: most horses won’t seek out booze. Their natural diet doesn’t include fermented treats, and their instincts steer them away from spoiled food. Still, accidents happen, especially when well-meaning owners unknowingly expose them to alcohol-laced substances.

Alcohol affects horses differently than humans. While we might laugh off a glass of wine, a horse’s system reacts with distress. Symptoms range from lethargy and loss of coordination to severe colic or even coma. The line between “drunk” and “dangerously intoxicated” is razor-thin for equines. So, while the image of a tipsy horse might seem amusing, the reality is anything but funny.

How Alcohol Affects a Horse’s Body

The Science Behind Equine Alcohol Metabolism

Horses process alcohol far slower than humans due to limited levels of alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme that breaks down ethanol. Without it, alcohol lingers in their bloodstream, causing prolonged toxicity. A human might metabolize a standard drink in an hour; a horse could take three times as long, with harsher consequences.

Physical Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning

• Loss of coordination (e.g., stumbling, swaying)
• Depression or lethargy
• Increased heart rate
• Digestive upset, including colic
• In severe cases: seizures or respiratory failure

Imagine a horse who’s ingested fermented grain: his gait becomes unsteady, his eyes glaze over, and his breathing turns shallow. This isn’t a buzzed barn buddy—it’s a medical emergency.

Common Ways Horses Encounter Alcohol

Most cases of equine intoxication happen accidentally. Fermented feed, like spoiled grain or moldy hay, is a prime culprit. But even “safe” treats can pose risks:

• Fermented apples or pears: Fallen fruit in pastures can ferment naturally.
• Homebrew mishaps: Unsecured beer or wine-making supplies tempt curious noses.
• Medications or supplements: Some contain trace alcohol as a preservative.

A single bucket of fermented cider left within reach can spell trouble. And while horses rarely seek alcohol, their curiosity—and sweet tooth—can lead them astray.

What to Do If Your Horse Drinks Alcohol

Act fast. Call your vet immediately, even if symptoms seem mild. While waiting:

• Remove any remaining alcohol sources.
• Keep the horse calm and confined to prevent injury.
• Offer fresh water to help dilute the alcohol.

Never induce vomiting unless directed by a professional. Unlike dogs, horses can’t safely vomit, and attempting it could cause aspiration pneumonia.

Preventing Accidental Intoxication

An ounce of prevention beats a gallon of cure. Store grains and feed in airtight containers, and regularly check pastures for rotting fruit. Secure compost bins and dispose of fermented waste properly. If you brew beer or cider, keep barrels and buckets far from curious muzzles.

The Bottom Line: Keep It Sober

Horses and alcohol don’t mix. What seems like a funny thought—a drunken horse—is a serious health hazard. By staying vigilant, you’ll ensure your equine friend stays happy, healthy, and firmly on four feet. After all, the only buzz they need is the joy of a brisk gallop or the crunch of a fresh carrot. 🐴

So next time you catch your horse eyeing that cider bucket, remember: their idea of a good time involves hay, not hops. And that’s exactly how it should be.