The connective tissues of all mammals are rich in the mineral sulfur. The skin, hair, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and hooves of horses are composed of connective tissue. Collagen is the protein of connective tissue, and is the most abundant protein in the mammalian body. Sulfur, an important component of collagen, is required for both joint health and, in horses, healthy hooves. One dietary source of sulfur is methionine. Methionine is an essential amino acid that the body can convert to another “sulfur-containing” amino acid called cysteine.
*Sulfur is abundant in the hoof. The “rotten egg” odor produced during hot-shoeing is the smell of sulfur gas resulting from burning the sulfur – rich connective tissue proteins of the hoof.
Once converted, cysteine provides the sulfur “welds,” or crosslinks, necessary for healthy collagen and, thus, a strong connective tissue infrastructure. The lack of sulfur, or methionine, in a horse’s diet is known to lead to structural weakness in the:
Ligaments
Tendons
Bones
Joints
Hooves
However, too much sulfur in a horse’s diet can lead to over-supplementation, weaken joint strength, and affect hoof quality.
How does Over-Supplementation Occur?
Many hoof supplements contain sulfur in the form of the amino acid methionine. The added methionine balances the relative deficiency of methionine in the typical equine pasture and hay diet. Most equine joint supplements contain MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, which contains around 34% sulfur. Sulfur over-supplementation can result from feeding a hoof supplement with methionine along with a joint supplement containing MSM. Excess sulfur in the diet has been shown to impair the proper absorption of copper. Copper, along with vitamin C, is necessary for collagen formation and the development of healthy connective tissue for strong hooves and joints.
How can Over-Supplementation be Avoided?
There are other negative effects of over-supplementation, and it is generally not a good idea to give more than one vitamin/mineral supplement to a horse. If the horse has joint problems in addition to hoof problems, joint supplements without additional sulfur can be given in addition to the hoof supplement. Avoiding supplements that duplicate nutrients is key to reducing the risk of over-supplementation. Providing a single balanced supplement, backed by research and years of proven effectiveness, is recommended and can lead to a healthier, happier horse.
Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint
Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint is formulated to provide nutrients to help build strong connective tissue, improve hoof and coat quality, and give support for the joints without creating the over-supplementation and added expense that occurs when feeding a hoof supplement and joint supplement separately.
Consider the following scenario, where two horses are: 1. In the same environment and barn 2. Fed the same diet 3. Working at the same level 4. Competing in the same discipline 5. Trimmed by the same Farrier 6. Cared by the same person However, one has healthy feet, and the other has poor-quality hooves.
Dietary Factors
In the case above, since all factors are the same, we may want to take a closer look at nutrition. Even though both horses are receiving the same diet, their genetic makeup plays a big role in how nutrients are absorbed and utilized.
When horses have poor feet due to dietary factors, it can be hard to determine the exact cause. However, you can assume that your horse is:
Not receiving the correct nutrients
Absorbing nutrients insufficiently
Another dietary factor is interfering with nutrient utilization
It is of great importance to maintain correct ratios between all nutrients to prevent one nutrient from interfering with the absorption and utilization of another. When balancing diets it is just as important to prevent excesses as it is to correct deficiencies.
Hoof problems? Where should you start?
1. Provide hay and/or pasture as the basic diet 2. Provide a quality hoof supplement 3. Provide free-choice loose salt 4. Allow access to fresh, clean water
If your horse does have a noticeable hoof problem, and you begin a nutritional program to solve it, you should see a positive difference emerging from the coronary band within 8 to 10 weeks. If not, you should re-examine your nutrition and management program immediately with the help of an equine nutritionist.
1) Avoid using several supplements o Most supplements, when fed in conjunction with others, can lead to over-supplementation, nutrient interferences, and even create toxic levels of some ingested nutrients. Ask your veterinarian if it’s safe to feed one supplement with another.
2) Avoid high-bran diets o Wheat, rice or other grains
3) In the vast majority of cases biotin alone is not enough to correct poor hoof quality. o There are many other nutrients that affect hoof quality.
The key is fortifying hoof health without producing nutrient excesses or deficiencies. When choosing a hoof supplement, ask your farrier which one does he or she recommends. Chances are, it’ll be Farrier’s Formula®: the #1 recommended hoof supplement by Farriers in the United States.
J. Frank Gravlee, DVM, MS, CNS Founder of Life Data Labs, Inc. H. Scott Gravlee, DVM, CNS Equine Nutrition Consultant
A 13-year-old Quarter Horse gelding was treated for severe laminitis with Animalintex poultices, Farrier’s Formula®, Pegasus Laser Therapy, and Soft-Ride Boots, which allowed for the growth of new hoof walls after the old hoof walls had rotated away and sloughed off. These therapies to increase circulation and provide nutrition to the hooves were successful in returning the gelding soundly to his previous level of work after 18 months.
Right Hind Sole 07/02/2012
Introduction
Laminitis in its most simple definition is inflammation of the sensitive laminae of the hoof wall. The cause however can vary from trauma, to grain overload, to toxins, and beyond. This case study is meant to show that even the most severe of cases have a chance of survival and return to work if we attempt to help the body heal itself rather than use our traditional treatment regimes. However, the key to success relies on the presence of a willing and diligent owner, veterinarian, farrier, and above all a patient that is willing to be treated.
Left Fore Medial 07/18/2012
Nutrition
In conjunction with antibiotic treatments, he received daily Probios. Free-choice grass hay was available at all times. Daily ration consisted of ½ cup Life Data® Forage Balancer. Hoof supplement consisted of 1/2cup Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength. Fresh water was also available at all times.
Right Hind Wall Resection 8/20/2012
Results
Hooves remained intact and grew at an increased rate.
The hoof wall that was present at the onset of the laminitic episode rotated away from P3 on each hoof. (see Left Fore Medial 7.18.2012).
The dead soles were removed at the beginning of the 3rd month of treatment. (see Right Hind Sole 7.2.2012).
The outer hoof walls detached at 4.5 months of treatment. (see Right Hind Wall Resection 8.20.2012).
New hoof wall grew in at the correct angle and did not associate with the old hoof wall. Hooves continued to grow and at 11 months all hooves had grown to touch the ground. (see Right Hind Lateral 3.30.2013). He remained tender on the front hooves but was able to have his back boots removed at that time.
At 18 months aluminum Natural Balance shoes were applied to his front hooves and he was able to trot off sound.
Right Hind Lateral 03/30/2013
Discussion
The combination of Animalintex poultices, Farrier’s Formula®, Pegasus Laser therapy, and Soft-Ride Boots led to a full recovery of a horse that should not have survived. Animalintex poultices allowed for debris and waste products to be removed from the body without the need to recirculate through the body. Farrier’s Formula® provided the nutrition needed for increased hoof growth. Pegasus laser therapy allowed for increased circulation to get the nutrients where they were needed most, as well as provide pain relief from standing in the “founder stance”. Soft-Ride Boots provided support and protection to the bandaged hooves as well as increasing circulation during the times he did choose to stand.
Right Hind Lateral 05/29/2013
E. Jones Williams, DVM Stable & Stock Veterinary Services, PLLC Watertown, TN USA
The nutritional demands of domesticated modern horses are much different than the nutritional demands of wild horses. A myriad of feedstuffs and supplements have been developed and marketed in reaction to these changing needs. While proper supplementation can provide numerous benefits, insufficient or excessive supplementation of any nutrient can be detrimental for hoof health.
Amino acids
Methionine, proline, glycine, and glutamine are some of the amino acids that are major protein building blocks of healthy connective tissue (hooves are primarily composed of connective tissue). An imbalance of the amino acid ratio leads to inefficient protein production.
Tyrosine and Iodine The amino acid tyrosine and the mineral iodine are components of thyroid hormone. A deficiency of either of these nutrients can lead to low thyroid function, obesity, and poor hair coat and hoof quality. The relationship between tyrosine, iodine, hoof problems, and obesity is very strong.
Methionine Methionine is important for the proper utilization of lipids and for building the sulfur crosslinks that add strength to connective tissue. Methionine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is commonly deficient in grasses and grains.
Vitamins
Vitamins are necessary for many metabolic processes and the general health of the horse and the hooves.
Vitamin A Either an excess or deficiency of vitamin A can result in poor hoof quality and predispose the invasion of microorganisms into the hoof wall, creating a hoof defect pattern in which the outer hoof wall flakes off. Hair-like projections emerging from the hoof wall or the sole of a horse’s hoof is also an indicator of Vitamin A excess or deficiency.
Vitamin C Vitamin C, along with copper, serves as a catalyst in the formation of strong and healthy horn. Supplementation of vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is traditionally believed to be unnecessary in horses. However, research conducted by Dr. Frank Gravlee, founder of Life Data Labs, established that stabled or stressed horses often have minimal blood levels of ascorbic acid and can therefore benefit from vitamin C supplementation.
Biotin Biotin is necessary as a coenzyme for a multitude of metabolic functions, and is significantly important in the proper growth and strength of connective tissue. Supplementation of biotin is safe because it is a water soluble vitamin, which means biotin is not stored in the body in any significant amounts. Biotin is found naturally in pasture grasses and in many feedstuffs fed to horses. Hindgut microbes normally manufacture sufficient biotin to meet the horse’s daily requirement.
Minerals
Minerals are responsible for the structural integrity of the body, energy production, immune health, and perform other functions such as co-factors for enzymatic and metabolic reactions.
Copper Copper is a mineral that is an important component of a multitude of metabolic functions. A copper deficiency leads to a number of abnormal conditions, including defects in the pigmentation and strength of the hooves. Forages can be copper deficient, especially if grown in high rainfall areas.
Zinc Zinc is a mineral required for the healthy maturing of keratin – a major component of the outer layers of dermal tissue. Proper keratin formation is important for wound healing, skin health, and hoof structure. Zinc can be present in less than ideal levels in forages.
Calcium and Phosphorus Calcium provides the adhesive “welds” between cells. Excess phosphorus in the diet can interfere with calcium absorption. In the presence of hoof problems, bran should not be fed. Whether it’s from wheat, rice, oats or other grains, bran contains phytates. Phytates block the absorption of calcium predisposing the horse to a calcium deficiency and other mineral imbalances. Calcium deficiency results in crumbly hoof horn.
Sulfur Sulfur is required to build the strong cross links necessary for healthy hoof horn. However, excessive sulfur interferes with copper metabolism leading to weak connective tissue structure and poor hoof quality.
Selenium We are unaware of a selenium deficiency causing poor hoof quality. A selenium deficiency in horses will lead to other problems, such as muscle deterioration, long before any effects could potentially develop in the hooves. However, horses supplemented with excessive selenium develop a lack of structure in the hoof horn. The excess selenium replaces the stronger sulfur bonds, resulting in weak hoof horn. As selenium toxicity progresses, the outer hoof wall becomes brittle, noticeable horizontal rings appear, pain develops at the coronary band, and the outer hoof wall may slough.
Fatty Acids and Phospholipids
Fatty acids and phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine) add strength and pliability to connective tissues of the hooves, are critical for healthy moisture balance, and are necessary for a healthy, shiny coat. Phospholipids are important for healthy cell membranes.
We are faced with the nutrition challenge to fortify the horse’s hoof health without producing nutrient excesses and/or deficiencies. When choosing a hoof supplement, ask your farrier which one they recommend. Chances are it’ll be Farrier’s Formula®, the #1 recommended hoof supplement by Farriers in the USA.
J. Frank Gravlee, DVM, MS, CNS Founder of Life Data Labs, Inc. H. Scott Gravlee, DVM, CNS Equine Nutrition Consultant
In Part 1 of “Correlations Between Equine Hoof and Joint Health,” we discussed how nutrition and body condition are two major factors influencing the health of equine hooves and joints. In part 2, we will concentrate on external and mechanical elements that could be creating stress on your horse’s hooves and joints. Many of the hoof and joint problems we see today can be attributed to the long-term effects of offloading, exposure to hard terrain, and unbalanced hooves.
Offloading
Offloading occurs when a horse “offloads” its weight onto one side to compensate for pain, injury, or discomfort. This is common for horses suffering from a joint injury or a hoof issue such as an abscess. The horse’s anatomy is designed for the entire weight of the horse to be evenly distributed between all four legs. The weight distribution becomes unbalanced when the horse offloads, causing the opposite leg(s) to bear additional weight. Over time, the extra weight may adversely affect the health of the hooves and joints. Some of the problems that can develop are:
If you witness your horse offloading weight, contact your farrier or veterinarian to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Your farrier and veterinarian can work with your horse to discover what is causing the pain and discomfort in the hoof or joint. If there is no permanent damage, they can work towards a solution to bring relief. Depending on the initial issue and severity of the problem, your farrier’s expertise in balancing and/or correct shoe application will assist in reducing the effects of offloading.
Terrain Impact
Although wet and muddy environments take a toll on hoof health, terrain also plays an essential aspect in the longevity of the joints and the health of the hooves. When the hoof strikes a surface, the force from the landing is absorbed throughout the leg. Higher levels of concussion occur with the harder landing surfaces such as frozen ground, concrete/pavement, and rocky terrain. Frequent impact on hard surfaces can weaken hoof and joint integrity, leading to one or more issues such as:
Joint deterioration
Bruised /swollen joints
Arthritis
Road founder
Sore and bruised soles
Hoof cracks
Hoof abscesses
Lameness
Terrain: What to Do?
The most straightforward answer is to reduce the amount of time your horse spends on these hard surfaces. Unfortunately, this may not be possible due to your location or the horse’s work. The best way to prevent damage from hard surfaces is to build healthy hooves and joints with nutrition. A healthy, stronger hoof is much more resilient to hard surfaces. Healthier hooves also reduce the amount of impact felt through the joints. Stronger joints are also more likely to stand up to wear and tear. Utilizing nutrition and hoof and joint supplementation is one of the easiest ways to promote hoof and joint health. Regular exercise and maintaining balanced hooves are also keys to prevention.
Unbalanced Hooves
A horse with unbalanced hooves is like a car out of alignment, driving down the road wearing down the tires. Unbalanced hooves predispose horses to hoof and joint issues. Ideally, the horse’s hoof contacts the ground as a unit, distributing the weight impact force evenly across the weight-bearing surface of the hoof. An unbalanced set of hooves will lead to an uneven distribution of weight and force across the hooves and the lower limb joints. The imbalance adds additional strain to the health of the hoof and joints. The risk of injury from tripping, stumbling, or an unnatural landing is more likely to occur, especially in performance horses who are actively running, jumping, and exercising. Unbalanced hooves can affect both barefoot and shod horses, and several problems can develop from this issue:
Hoof distortion
Increase risk of thrush and white line disease
Hoof abscesses
Hoof or joint-related injuries
Laminitis
Joint deterioration
Hoof wall defects and separation
Heel bulb displacement
Microbial invasion
Unbalanced Hooves: What to Do?
The best solution is to work with your farrier to balance the hooves. Horse owners should pay close attention to their horse’s hooves. Clean and pick the feet daily and examine the hoof for changes or problems. Never be afraid to bring up a hoof balance concern with your farrier or veterinarian. You can learn more about the importance of well-balanced hooves in our previous blog.
Protecting hoof and joint health is essential to the longevity of your horse. If you believe your horse has sustained an injury or has developed an issue, consult with your farrier and veterinarian. Contact us if you have any questions regarding this article.
Have you ever considered the substantial influence the health of our horse’s hooves and joints have on one another? For example, can poor hoof quality negatively impact joint health? Can a joint injury add extra strain to the hoof? It is easy to look at our horse’s health from a narrow perspective, only considering the problem at hand. When it comes to the longevity and comfort of the horse, we need to look at the whole picture. The horse’s joints and hooves function together in its movement and balance. When one is afflicted, the other is often affected as well.
Effects from offloading, poor nutrition, hoof balance, terrain, and body condition accumulate over time, weakening the horse’s extremities and creating real problems in the horse’s locomotion. These influences become even more important for older horses, who are more susceptible to joint pain, arthritis, and hoof problems such as laminitis. In part one of this blog, we will discuss the impact that body condition and nutrition have on the health of the hooves and joints.
Overweight Body Condition
Obesity continues to be a growing problem in the horse community. Approximately 50% of the horse population in the United States is considered overweight. It is almost guaranteed that an obese horse will eventually develop hoof and/or joint problems. The additional weight increases the strain and pressure heaped onto the hooves and joints. The excess weight will also boost the risk of problems developing when combined with unbalanced hooves, frequent exposure to hard terrain, and offloading. In addition, most of these horses also do not receive enough exercise or balanced diets. This sedentary lifestyle does not provide the needed exercise to maintain joint strength and quality. Providing an imbalanced diet only adds to the problem. Nutrient and caloric excesses in the diet are typical in overweight horses and can have many consequences on the health of the hooves and joints. Common problems that can occur in obese horses are:
The most impactful move horse owners can make to reduce their horse’s body weight is to return to the “basic diet” of the horse. Remove all complete feeds, sweet feeds, and treats from the horse’s diet. Utilize grass and hay as the cornerstone of your horse’s feeding program. We also recommend including a quality hay and pasture balancer, such as Barn Bag®, for nutritional support. This approach allows horse owners to control the number of calories their horses receive while still providing the essential nutrients the horse requires. Adding regular exercise to the horse’s daily regime is also extremely important. Start slow and allow the horse to build up to the new activities. The last thing you want to do is cause an injury by pushing your horse too hard and too fast.
Nutrition & Supplementation
The health and quality of your horse’s hooves and joints are reliant on proper nutrition and a balanced diet. In fact, poor hoof quality is one of the first signs of poor nutrition. The hooves, skin, hair coat, and ligaments supporting the joints are all made of connective tissue. If the hooves are impacted by poor nutrition, all other connective tissues of the horse will suffer, including the joints. Although nutrient imbalances can develop in any horse, overweight horses are highly susceptible to imbalances and the resulting hoof and joint issues.
Nutrient deficiencies and excesses in the diet will hinder the development of hoof and joint quality. One example is a deficiency in Vitamin A which creates a hoof wall defect where the hoof wall “flakes” away. Another perfect example is sulfur. A deficiency of sulfur-containing amino acids could lead to structural weakness of the ligaments, tendons, joints, and hooves. However, too much sulfur in the diet can have a negative effect on connective tissue strength. When hoof and joint quality are poorly affected by nutrition, we can expect:
Providing a balanced diet supported with essential nutrients will have one of the most significant impacts on your horse’s hooves and joints. Adding a quality hoof supplement to your horse’s feeding program will also benefit all dermal tissue of the horse, including the hoof and the connective tissue of the joint. A hoof supplement will build, improve, and support hoof quality to make it more resilient to many hoof problems.
Horse owners can also utilize a joint supplement to support joint health further. Although, feeding a hoof supplement with a separate joint supplement can have risks of sulfur over-supplementation. To avoid over-supplementing, utilizing a combo product to support hoof and joint health, such as Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint, is highly recommended. Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint is balanced to support the hoof and joint without the risk of over-supplementation. Starting horses on Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint from an early age is also a great preventive measure.
Farrier’s Formula® DS Plus Joint
Prevention Versus Treatment
Preventing a problem is always better than treating a problem. Protecting and building quality hooves and joints begins at conception. Waiting to tackle a problem until there is a problem can be time-consuming, costly, and have lasting effects on your horse’s health. The key to prevention and extending the longevity of your horse begins with:
Although nutrition and weight management are major factors in hoof and joint health, there are other factors that still need to be considered. In part 2 of “Correlations Between Equine Hoof and Joint Health,” we will dive further into this subject to discuss offloading, terrain, and unbalanced hooves. Contact us if you have any questions about this article or the supplements mentioned. Consult with your farrier and veterinarian immediately if you believe your horse has a hoof or joint problem.
With the development of a hoof abscess, an energetic and active horse can suddenly become severely lame. It can happen quickly, painfully, and with no prior signs of a problem. Finding your horse in this state can be terrifying, especially if you’ve had little experience dealing with a hoof abscess. Luckily, with time, patience and proper treatment most horses will fully recover. In this blog, we will discuss five tips that can be utilized to assist in your horse’s recovery.
1. Follow Veterinarian and Farrier Instructions
The treatment and recovery from a hoof abscess require a team effort from the farrier, veterinarian and the horse owner. The horse owner’s role and compliance among this team is vital to the horse’s recovery. The responsibilities of day-to-day maintenance and the required care important for recovery fall on the horse owner’s shoulders. Neglecting these responsibilities can hinder the healing process or even create a more severe issue. It is also important that the horse owner trusts the decisions and treatment methods mapped out by the veterinarian and farrier.
2. Protect the Abscess Exit Wound
The pain that occurs from an abscess is due to exudate buildup that creates pressure within the hoof. To relieve the pain and begin healing, this pressure must be relieved. Many treatment methods involve the surgical draining of the hoof abscess by the veterinarian. In some cases, the buildup will rupture out of the coronary band on its own. In either case, there will be an open wound where the pressure was relived. This wound is an open source for microbial invasions and debris to enter. This is especially true if the wound is located on the sole of the hoof. Infections, new abscesses or other issues can develop if the wound is not properly treated.
Your farrier or veterinarian may advise you to wrap the hoof depending on the location of the exit wound. If this is the case, follow their instructions carefully and regularly change the wrapping. Once the abscess has completely stopped draining, packing the exit wound with an anti-microbial clay may also be recommended. Packing the wound with a product, such as Life Data® Hoof Clay®, not only assists in keeping out foreign material but the non-caustic ingredients in Life Data® Hoof Clay® will kill bacteria. It is also made using natural porous clay which will not block oxygen to the hoof.
*Do not utilize a hoof packing or topical that contains harmful chemicals or that blocks oxygen to the hoof.
3. Promote Hoof Quality
A hoof abscess will compromise the integrity, structure and quality of the hoof. The goal is to rebuild hoof quality to where it was, or better than it was before the abscess. This can be accomplished through quality hoof supplements, such as Farrier’s Formula®. Farrier’s Formula® will assist in the recovery by providing the nutrients essential for new and healthy hoof growth. Farrier’s Formula® will also develop a stronger hoof with a denser hoof wall and sole, making it more resilient to infections. Even after the hoof has regrown, we advise the continue feeding of Farrier’s Formula® to maintain hoof quality and to help prevent future hoof abscesses from developing. You can learn more about the relationship between hoof quality and recurring hoof abscesses by reading our previous blog article
You may also want to examine your horse’s diet during this time. Since your horse is not as active it may require less calories to maintain its current body weight. Overweight horses tend to have more hoof problems due to the extra weight the hooves are supporting. Switching your horse to its “basic diet” of grass and hay with support from a ration balancer, like Barn Bag®, can provide the daily nutrients needed without the excess in calories. You can feed Farrier’s Formula® and Barn Bag® together without the risk of over supplementation.
The environment can make it more difficult for your horse’s hoof to heal after an abscess. As previously mentioned, the exit wound from the abscess acts as an entry point for microbial invasions and debris. Exposing your horse to excess moisture, urine, feces and mud will predispose your horse to continued infection. Keeping clean stalls, dry bedding, and limiting the hoof’s exposure to wet and muddy conditions assist in healing and maintaining the health of the hoof.
Utilizing a non-caustic hoof topical, such as Farrier’s Finish®, will provide extra protection from the environment and help control moisture balance in the hoof. Farrier’s Finish® contains a blend of Yucca Extract, tamed iodine and Tea Tree Oil for added protection against microbial invasions and the harsh effects of excrement. Farrier’s Finish® can also be applied over Life Data® Hoof Clay®.
Lastly, pay attention to the type of terrain surrounding your horse. Hard surfaces and rocky environments can typically further wear down the hoof. This wear and tear lead to the development of cracks, chips and other hoof defects. Loose pebbles and gravel can penetrate these defects or the recovering abscesses wound, thus creating another infection. This is especially important during recovery when the hoof may still be weakened and tender.
5. Maintain a Farrier and Maintenance Schedule
It is vital that you continue scheduling regular farrier appointments. Ensuring your horse’s hooves are balanced and, if needed, supported with the correct shoes will assist in the healing process. Your farrier will also monitor the recovery of the hoof and manage any other issues that may arise. With hoof abscesses it is typical for horses to unevenly distribute weight to relieve pressure off the infected hoof. In doing so, your horse’s other hooves become more susceptible to many hoof related issues such as cracks, splitting, laminitis and additional abscesses. Your farrier will help mitigate this issue through balancing and maintaining the other hooves.
Your farrier is not the only one responsible for your horse’s hooves. It is ideal that every horse owner ensures their horse’s hooves are being properly picked and cleaned daily. This ritual removes unwanted debris and acts as a preventive measure to future infections and hoof problems. Using the Life Data® Hoof Clay® to fill in old nail holes and hoof defects is also a recommended maintenance practice. Additionally, horse owners can use it on the white line and around the frog to help protect those areas from infections such as White Line Disease and Thrush in horses.
Hoof Abscess Recovery
Recovery from a hoof abscess can be a long and drawn out process. There is no easy route, but you can help the recovery along by fulfilling your horse’s needs. Supporting your horse during this healing time can speed up recovery and build a better more resilient hoof. If you believe your horse is currently suffering from a hoof abscess, please seek the advice of your veterinarian or farrier as soon as possible. The sooner a hoof abscess is found and treated, the faster your horse will recover. If you have any questions on using Life Data® products to prevent hoof abscesses or to assist in recovery, please call us at 1-800-624-1873 or visit our website.
How many times have you planned a meal and then realized you forgot an important ingredient? How many times have you had a slip of the hand, and turned your slightly salted mashed potatoes into a taste-bud-twisting salt mine? If you enjoy baking or cooking, you probably understand the importance of a recipe and the ingredients involved. You know that too much flour in a cake recipe can result in a cake that is dry and crumbly. Not enough flour and your cake will become a watery mess that no one wants to eat. The ingredients are essential and it’s important to utilize them in the correct balance and ratio to cook a masterful dish. The same analogy can be used when considering your horse’s hoof supplement. Without the correct ingredients in the proper ratios, a hoof supplement’s formula can be a recipe for disaster.
There are three important questions to consider when choosing a hoof supplement:
What ingredients are in the hoof supplement?
Are the ingredients balanced and in the correct
ratio?
Does the supplement work?
The Ingredients Hoof Supplements are Key to Improved Hoof Health
What would you do if someone handed you all the ingredients
for a salad, and asked you to make a cake with it? Just like in baking or
cooking, the ingredients in your hoof supplement matter. Before choosing a
supplement ask yourself, “Does this supplement contain the needed nutritional
ingredients that my horse’s hooves require?”
The equine diet is one of the major contributing factors to the health of your horse’s hooves. Many of the hoof related issues we see today are being caused by nutritional deficiencies or excesses in the horse’s diet. Despite many misconceptions, the horse requires more than just Biotin to improve hoof quality. It takes a collection of nutrients that are lacking in the modern-day horse’s diet. On the reverse side, we cannot overload the horse with nutrients without risking over supplementation. It’s important to understand which nutrients are important for hoof health; how these nutrients interact with one another; and what role they play in the health of the horse.
The Formula in Hoof Supplements Matter
Pelleted Hoof Supplements are Typically More Palatable
You cannot take all the cake ingredients, throw them into a
bowl unmeasured, bake it and expect it to come out perfect. The recipe is there
for a reason and too much or too little of the ingredient can quickly turn your
cake into an inedible mess. The same is true for a hoof supplement. Even with
all the right ingredients and nutrients, a hoof supplement will not benefit
your horse if the nutrients are not balanced and in the right ratios. For
example, a supplement containing an excess of selenium could cause drastic hoof
issues. Certain ingredients can also interfere or block other important
nutrients when improperly balanced. For example, excess phosphorus can
interfere with the horse’s ability to absorb calcium, creating a calcium
deficiency in the horse. It’s important to ask, “Is this supplement balanced?
Are the nutrients in the correct proportions? How will it fit in my horse’s
current feeding program?”
Does the Hoof Supplement Work?
If the supplement you are providing does not have the
correct nutrients or formula, it will not be effective. The ingredients and
formula are key to a quality hoof supplement. So, how do you know which
supplement to use?
Find an Established Hoof Supplement
If a hoof supplement doesn’t work, it won’t stand the test of time. Find a hoof supplement that has a good reputation and has been around for several years.
In today’s technological society, finding product reviews is easy. Look at the manufacturer’s website and social media accounts; read reviews and verify that the supplement has been successful for others.
Ask your Farrier
No one knows hooves like your farrier. Ask which hoof supplement works best.
Our Recommended Hoof Supplement:
Farrier’s Formula® Double Strength
#1 Farrier Recommended Hoof Supplement
Introduced over 40 years ago, Farrier’s Formula® ushered in the concept of “feeding the hoof” and was the first hoof supplement on the market. Developed by Dr. Frank Gravlee, Farrier’s Formula® is based on extensive laboratory research that analyzed the relationship between nutrient imbalances in the blood and hoof problems in horses. Dr. Frank Gravlee identified not only what nutrients were important for hoof health, but in what proportions and ratios. Research continues to this day to develop additional products for the hooves, such as a formulation for acute laminitis. Every bag of Farrier’s Formula® provides the nutrients needed for the growth of healthy and strong hooves. The effectiveness of the product has been proven in scientific studies at independent universities. Farrier’s Formula® is the #1 recommended hoof supplement by farriers.
Your horse will not verbally inform you of a hoof related problem. So, unless your horse is related to Mr. Ed, it’s your job as a horse owner to detect hoof issues. Luckily, there are signs to look for that can help you in this process. With a keen eye, knowledge of what to look for, and a commitment to maintain healthy hooves, these signs can help you address hoof problems before they become serious. Below are 5 early signs of unhealthy hooves:
1. Changes in Personality
No one knows your horse like you do. Your horse’s mannerisms, movements, and actions are all part of its personality. A change in one or more of these things can be a sign of discomfort, tenderness, or pain in the hooves. Watch the way your horse is walking. Has the gait changed? Does your horse seem less energetic or moving more slowly? Pay attention to your horse’s actions. Is your horse resistant to work, perform, or walk on certain surfaces? Is your horse less social or acting moody? These changes may be a sign that a problem is developing.
2. Outer Hoof Health
Chipping and cracking are not normal for a healthy hoof. The development of chips and cracks along the hoof wall are signs of weakened hoof integrity. This can also be a sign that your horse’s hooves are too dry. Cracks and chips predispose the hoof to bacterial and fungal invasions which can further deteriorate hoof health. Pay attention to the outer appearance of the hoof during regular cleaning and maintenance. During cleanings, be alert for odors coming from the hoof. If an odor is present, it is likely an infection is already present. The use of a non-caustic antimicrobial hoof topical or hoof clay can help protect hoof cracks from “hoof-eating” microbes.
3. Dull Hair Coat
Your horse’s hair coat condition is a direct reflection of the internal health of the hooves. The hair coat, skin and hooves are all made from dermal tissue, and require many of the same nutrients. If the horse is under or over supplemented with these nutrients, problems with the hair coat are usually duplicated in the hooves. The hair coat is the first to show signs of these nutrient deficiencies. If your horse’s hair coat begins to lose luster, the quality of the hooves may soon follow. Review your horse’s current feeding program and consider adding a high-quality hoof supplement to the diet. Feeding a high-quality hoof supplement will help provide the necessary nutrients to promote the internal health of the hooves and hair coat.
4. Shoe Retention
Shod horses require a strong hoof wall to hold shoes. It is important to maintain a regular farrier schedule to ensure hooves are balanced and shoes are properly set. Although shoes may loosen over time, hooves should be strong enough to hold a shoe until the next scheduled farrier appointment. On average, that time frame should be around every 6 weeks. If the hoof is not able to hold the shoe for that period, the health of the hoof should be evaluated. This may also be a sign that environmental conditions surrounding the horse are influencing poor hoof health. Overly wet environments can contribute to the development of soft hooves. While overly dry environments can create hooves that are too brittle. Both conditions make it difficult for a hoof to retain shoes.
5. Hoof Growth
Slow hoof growth is another indicator that your horse is not receiving the proper nutrition needed to promote a healthy hoof. In the spring and summer months, you should expect good healthy hoof growth. On average, you should see ¼ to ⅜ inches of growth per month. During the winter months your horse’s hooves will not grow as much, although it is still important to continue winter hoof care during this period. Hooves with a good growth rate tend to be healthier and easier to manage, trim and shoe. Feeding a high-quality hoof supplement can help promote hoof growth. Utilizing a non-caustic hoof topical is also recommended to protect new growth from the external environment.
Your horse’s hooves are essential to the soundness and overall health of your horse. Noticing these early signs of poor hoof health can not only save your horse’s hooves, but also save you time, money, and frustration. If you are witnessing one or more of these signs, consult with your farrier and veterinarian regarding the health of your horse’s hooves. If you have any questions regarding proper nutrition or hoof care, feel free to contact us at 1-800-624-1873, 1-256-370-7555, or cservice@lifedatalabs.com.
Soft hooves are one of the more common problems associated
with wet and muddy conditions. When discussing the topic of soft hooves, it’s
important to understand that the hooves’ main purpose is to support the horse.
The hooves are designed to provide balance and stability while carrying the
full weight of the horse. When a horse develops soft hooves, other hoof
problems that can lead to lameness are likely to follow. In this blog we will
discuss:
How Soft Hooves Develop
Problems Associated with Soft Hooves
Prevention and Treatment
How Soft Hooves
Develop
The anatomy of the hoof wall plays a large role in how the
hoof softens. The hoof wall is composed of horn tubules that provide strength
and density to the hoof wall, while at the same time allows the hoof wall to be
porous. In normal environmental conditions, these tubules will remain tightly
packed and the hoof will remain strong. In wet environmental conditions, the
porous structure of the hoof acts like a sponge and will absorb moisture. This
excess moisture weakens the connective tissue crosslinks that hold the tubules
in place. These bonds will continue to weaken and stretch if the hoof is
exposed to moisture for an extended period. This process causes the hoof to
lose its structural integrity and shape.
The Effects of Soft Hooves
Under normal conditions, the sole of the hoof is concave.
This concave structure helps protect the more sensitive parts of the hoof and
acts like a shock absorber. When the hoof absorbs too much moisture, the hoof wall
expands. The expansion then stretches and separates the white line area. When
the weight of the horse is applied to the softened hoof, the hoof begins to
pancake, causing the sole of the hoof to drop. Hoof pancaking will also cause
the hoof wall to weaken, crack, and split. This creates the perfect environment
for numerous hoof related issues to arise.
“The first thing that is noticeable when I see a softened hoof is the enhanced aspect of distortion. When softened, the hoof wall is not as strong and can become difficult to manage during rigorous work. When the hoof capsule is weakened, we must worry about the development of cracks and the hoof’s balance. Right now, I am seeing a lot of clients that are being affected by hoof abscesses. Especially in areas where the hoof tissue has become soft. It is important that your farrier is properly cleaning out the seat of corn area, enhancing the vertical depth of the hoof, and paying attention to the sole. This will help ensure your horse does not become too sensitive.” – Darren Owen, Professional Farrier
Problems Associated with Soft Hooves
Poor Hoof Quality
Hoof cracks, splits, chips, and distortion can form due to the development of soft hooves.
Sensitive Hooves
Hooves may become tender to hard and rocky surfaces. Foreign objects, rocks, and other material can penetrate and bruise the softened sole. If the hoof becomes too tender, the horse may have difficulty walking or become lame.
Hoof Abscesses
A softened hoof increases the likelihood of abscessing. The weak hoof wall, stretched white line, and softened sole make it easier for bacteria and/or foreign material to penetrate the hoof capsule. This can result in the formation of hoof abscesses.
Shoe Retention
A soft hoof makes it challenging for a horse to hold a shoe. When the hoof becomes too soft, clenched nails holding the shoe will loosen, pull out, or tear away. This can result in chunks of the hoof wall tearing out; especially around the nail holes. The loss of hoof wall makes it more difficult to reset the shoe. The farrier may resort to gluing the shoe if too much of the hoof is damaged.
Thrush and Crumbling Hoof Horn
Wet and muddy conditions expose hooves to “hoof-eating” microbes that cause thrush and crumbling hoof horn. Crumbling hoof horn, cracks, chips and flat soles are entry points for microbes to invade and thrive.
Lameness
A soft hoof is susceptible to a wide range of hoof related problems. Your horse could become lame from one or more of the above problems.
How to Prevent Soft Hooves
Proper hoof care, clean and dry environments, and proper
nutrition all play a role in maintaining a healthy hoof.
“If your farrier does not have a good solid hoof to work with it is challenging to properly shoe the horse. This is where proper nutrition and prevention come in. This allows the horse to maintain a strong hoof even in times when we are experiencing challenging wet environmental conditions.” – Darren Owen, Professional Farrier
Steps to Prevent Soft Hooves
Avoid allowing your horse to spend extended periods of time in wet and muddy environments.
Use shavings and provide your horse with a clean and dry environment.
Routinely dry and clean your horse’s hooves of any mud, debris, or foreign material.
Regularly apply a non-caustic hoof conditioner such as Farrier’s Finish® to help regulate moisture balance.
TIP: Adding 2-3 tablespoons of table salt or Epsom salt to a 16 oz bottle of Farrier’s Finish® will help pull out excess moisture and harden the hoof.
If your horse develops soft hooves or other hoof related
issues, consult with your farrier and veterinarian. If you have any questions
on utilizing Life Data® products to help treat or prevent soft hooves, contact
us at 1-800-624-1873 or by e-mail at cservice@lifedatalabs.com.
