When raw or uncooked linseed is poisonous to horses - it contains cyanide containing compounds linustatin, linamarin and neolinustatin as well as an enzyme which liberates the poison cyanide if the linseed is fed raw. However it is reported that by crushing the seeds one may feed small amounts, but for the article we shall only recommend boiling the seeds.

How to prepare

A daily quota of 200 - 450 grams of linseeds (pre-cooked weight) for each horse is advised, caution with ponies who tend to be on the porky side adjust your feeding rate to suit the little guys.

Method 1

To prepare your linseeds for cooking you can first soak overnight in cold water in an old saucepan. Now add some more water before bringing to the boil and boiling for 15 minutes to remove the poisons. After 15 minutes of boiling reduce the heat and simmer the linseed for 2-3 hours- until it forms a jelly. Some people will allow the linseeds to  simmering for up to 6 hours. Keep a careful eye on the linseed as it is cooking, add more water if necessary and warning cooking linseed without keeping a eye on it can result in a major mess in the kitchen!

Method 2

Using a ‘slow cooker’ place your linseeds in cooker, then pour boiling water on top of them, here we use 2ltrs for 1 ½ cups of dry seeds. Cover with lid and turn slow cooker on to high, the linseed will get to the point of boiling allow it boil for 15-30 minutes give it a few stirs, then turn down to low setting and allow linseeds to simmer. Normally with this method after app 6 hours we turn it of.

When the mixture has cooled it will turn into a rather cacky colored looking jelly - but most horses and ponies really enjoy it when mixed into their feed! Before feeding cooked linseed jelly to your horse or pony ensure that the linseed has cooled to blood temperature - otherwise it may scald you horse's mouth.

Remember that linseed is poisonous if it is not boiled thoroughly and it must be used the same day that it is cooked. The cooked Linseed jelly will quickly turn rancid.