Can horses eat flour when it is baked e.g. in a cake or could be bad for their digestive system?

It is generally not recommended to feed horses any baked goods, including cakes that contain flour, as these are not part of their natural diet and could potentially cause digestive issues.

Horses are herbivores and their digestive system is specifically adapted to process grasses, hay, and other plant materials. Their digestive tract is designed to break down fibrous materials and they lack the necessary enzymes to efficiently digest cooked or processed foods like cakes.

Feeding baked goods to horses can disrupt their digestive system, causing discomfort, bloating, gas, or even more severe issues like colic. Additionally, the high sugar content in many cakes can lead to weight gain and other health problems over time.

If you want to treat your horse, there are safer options available such as commercially produced horse treats or certain fruits and vegetables that are safe for them to consume. It's always best to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to ensure you are feeding your horse a healthy and balanced diet.