Caring For Your Horses Hooves: Prevention and Remedies
Proper hoof care is essential for a horse’s overall health and well-being. As the saying goes, “No hoof, no horse.” This adage highlights the critical role hooves play in a horse’s mobility, comfort, and performance. Let’s explore what goes into keeping your horse’s hooves healthy, preventive measures, and remedies to ensure your horse’s hooves remain healthy and strong.
University of Missouri Extension
The Anatomy of a Horse’s Hoof
Understanding the structure of a hoof helps horse owners provide better care. The hoof is comprised of:
Wall: The outer covering, which bears most of the horse’s weight.
Sole: The underside of the hoof, offering protection and support.
Frog: The V-shaped structure, essential for shock absorption and circulation.
Coronary Band: The area at the top of the hoof where growth originates.
White Line: The connection between the sole and the wall.
Each part of the hoof must be maintained to prevent issues.
Prevention: Daily Hoof Care Practices
Regular Cleaning
Pick out your horse’s hooves daily to remove dirt, manure, and debris. Small rocks can cause bruising if left in a hoof.
This prevents infections like thrush and allows you to spot early signs of problems.
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Routine Trimming
Schedule regular farrier visits every 4-8 weeks.
Keep the hoof balanced to prevent uneven wear, cracks, and lameness.
Balanced Diet
Provide a diet rich in biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote hoof strength. Our horses all receive Excel EQ ProElite which contains Camelina oil, vitamin E, and is rich in omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9.
Ensure your horse has access to clean water and quality forage.
Proper Environment
Maintain a clean, dry stabling to avoid excessive moisture, which can lead to soft hooves or infections.
Rotate pastures to reduce mud accumulation during wet seasons.
Exercise and Circulation
Regular movement helps stimulate blood flow to the hooves.
Avoid prolonged stalling without turnout.
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Common Hoof Problems and Remedies
Thrush
Symptoms: Foul odor, black discharge in the frog area.
Prevention: Keep hooves clean and dry.
Remedy: Apply a thrush treatment and consult your farrier for advice.
Bacteria is thought to cause thrush which may affect a single foot or multiple feet. The bacteria causes decay of the frog in the hoof which can lead to pain and lameness.
Lack of exercise is thought to be a contributing factor according to Brian Beasley, DVM, University of Georgia. Movement encourages good blood flow which brings oxygen to the frog.
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Cracks
Symptoms: Visible splits in the hoof wall.
Prevention: Regular trimming and balanced nutrition.
Remedy: Use hoof dressings and avoid excessive moisture or dryness.
For minor cracks, a farrier can remove uneven edges and reshape the hoof to reduce pressure on the affected area. Applying a high-quality hoof dressing or conditioner such as ExcelRescue Hoof Support to support the healthy growth of the horse hoof.
In more severe cases, cracks may require stabilization to prevent them from spreading further. This can be achieved using specialized adhesives or hoof patches applied by a skilled farrier. It’s also essential to address any underlying causes, such as poor hoof balance or environmental conditions like excessive moisture or dryness.
Regular follow-up appointments with the farrier are crucial to monitor progress and make adjustments as the hoof grows out. Proper treatment and care ensure the crack heals effectively and minimizes the risk of recurring issues.
Abscesses
Symptoms: Sudden lameness, heat, and swelling.
Prevention: Inspect hooves for sharp objects and clean stalls regularly. Make sure your horse is up to date on their vaccinations.
Remedy: Consult your vet or farrier. They may have you soak the hoof in Epsom salt and warm water to draw out infection, however, soaking may not always be the answer. Felice Cuomo, DVM, states that “Epsom salt soaks may do more harm than good. Oversoaking can weaken and harm the hoof.” Your horse may need analgesics (pain relievers).
Abscesses are caused by bacteria entering the hoof through a puncture or bruising.
Laminitis
Symptoms: Reluctance to move, heat in hooves, and a tender sole.
Prevention: Avoid overfeeding grain or lush pasture.
Remedy: Immediate veterinary care, supportive shoeing, and dietary adjustments.
White Line Disease
Symptoms: Crumbling or hollowed hoof wall.
Prevention: Regular farrier checks and hoof maintenance.
Remedy: Remove infected areas and apply antimicrobial treatments.
Seasonal Hoof Care Tips
Winter:
Check for snow and ice buildup in hooves.
Use hoof boots or apply non-slip coatings when necessary.
Summer:
Avoid prolonged exposure to hard, dry ground.
Provide access to shade and maintain hydration to prevent cracking.
Rainy Seasons:
Create well-drained paddocks to minimize mud-related issues.
Consider applying a hoof sealant to reduce water absorption.
Partnering with Your Farrier and Veterinarian
Building a strong relationship with a qualified farrier and veterinarian is key to your horse’s hoof health. They can:
Diagnose and treat conditions early.
Provide custom shoeing or trimming solutions.
Offer advice on dietary supplements or products tailored to your horse’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Caring for your horse’s hooves is an investment in their overall health and longevity. By practicing consistent preventive measures and addressing issues promptly, you can keep your horse sound and happy. Remember, healthy hooves pave the way for a thriving horse!
Author, Ame Vanorio is a writer and horse mom to Rocket.
