Hello Marilyn,

I generally do not like to use artificial sweeteners in any significant quantity, but if it is only in a treat, this may be acceptable.

But, allow me to suggest that you do not include any sweetening agent. If you are adding anything starchy, such as oats, for example, this is digested down to sugar and is not appropriate for a horse who has metabolic syndrome (like diabetes, but not exactly). Use ingredients such as flaxseed meal, beet pulp, and alfalfa -- horses do not have access to sugar in the wild and don't require it in their treats. And also avoid anything sugary such as apples or carrots.

If you must use an artificial sweetener, I prefer Stevia which is an herb and well tolerated. But, please consider avoiding starchy and sugary ingredients and allow the horse to enjoy the true taste of feeds that he is designed to enjoy.

You may wish to browse at Skode's Horse Treats for examples of low starch/low sugar treats.

All the best,

Dr. Getty [:-]
Author of Feed Your Horse Like a Horse

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO