Can they eat it? / Coffee and energy drinks
Can horses eat coffee and energy drinks?
No. Stimulant, and a banned substance in competition.
Horses are sensitive to caffeine; keep coffee cups and grounds out of the barn.
Excitement, fast heartbeat, trembling.
Call your vet now. Note what was eaten, how much and when; do not wait for signs.
Why it is dangerous
Coffee and energy drinks contain caffeine, a stimulant that speeds up the heart and nervous system. Horses are especially sensitive to it, and energy drinks often add sugar, taurine and other stimulants on top of the caffeine, which compounds the effect. Because the dose a horse receives depends on its body size, even a small amount from a cup or can can be enough to cause trouble. Coffee grounds and sweetened drinks are equally a concern because they carry the same stimulant.
How much is too much
There is no amount of coffee or energy drink that is considered safe for a horse, so treat any intake as a reason to call your vet. A few sips may cause only mild agitation in a large horse, while a can or a cup of grounds could cause a serious reaction. A pony, a miniature or a horse with a heart or metabolic condition is more vulnerable and may react to a much smaller amount. Note the approximate volume and time eaten.
Horses
Horses in work or at pasture are often exposed through discarded cups, energy drink cans or grounds left in a stall, tack room or trailer. Keep all caffeinated products sealed and out of reach, and clean up spills promptly. Remember that performance horses are tested for caffeine, so any exposure can also affect competition eligibility.
Ponies and easy keepers
Ponies, miniatures, seniors and insulin-resistant or laminitis-prone horses are at greater risk because their smaller bodies and metabolic issues make them more reactive. Even a small taste could trigger a rapid heartbeat or trembling. Keep these animals completely away from coffee and energy products, and call your vet at once if any is eaten.
Safe alternatives
If your horse is looking for a treat or a bit of extra enjoyment, offer a few fresh apple slices or carrot coins, or a small handful of plain timothy pellets soaked in warm water. Both are low in sugar and safe for most horses. Introduce any new treat slowly and in small amounts.
Questions people ask
Can horses have decaf coffee?
Decaf still contains small amounts of caffeine and is not a safe treat for horses. Stick with fresh produce or plain forage-based options instead.
My horse got into a coffee cup. What should I do?
Call your vet now, note roughly how much was eaten and when, and do not wait for symptoms to appear. Do not try to induce vomiting unless your vet tells you to.
Will caffeine show up in a drug test?
Yes, caffeine is a prohibited substance in most competitions, and even small amounts can result in a positive test. Check your governing body's rules and tell your vet if exposure occurred before a show.
Toxic for horses means: do not give it; if they ate it, call your vet or a poison line.
General information from veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis. If you are worried, call your vet or a pet poison line: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435. Charges may apply.
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · from ASPCA Animal Poison Control, Merck Veterinary Manual and university extension guidance.