Research Articles: External Hoof Protection

There are several factors that can lead to the development of hoof cracks and lameness. Quality hoof supplements can help strengthen the hoof wall and “grow out” the crack; however, the hoof-eating microbes that invade deep into the hoof cracks must also be addressed. Non-caustic and effective products should be applied into the hoof cracks to destroy the microbes

Thrush and white line disease develop in the equine hoof when anaerobic microorganisms populate “oxygen poor” environments. The bacterial and fungal organisms causing thrush thrive and rapidly divide in these environments that have little available oxygen. These microbes are opportunistic and common in the soil and the horse’s surroundings.All horses are exposed. Both barefoot and shod horses can develop these “hoof eating” microbial invasions.

Summertime is when horses are most likely to be bathed and hosed off frequently. It is possible to keep your horse cool without damaging the hooves through the wet-dry cycle. Most importantly, do not use products on your horse’s hooves you would not use on your hands.

Many horse owners tend to overlook the fact that as tough as equine hoof horn may appear, it is 95% protein (similar to your own skin). One should avoid use of any product that will denature protein and affect the normal function of the hoof tissue or that seals oxygen away from the hoof. Besides bleach, iodine and copper, one should also avoid remedies containing grease, motor oil, pine tar, formaldehyde, acetone, and turpentine.

It’s during the hot and dry days of summer that we typically see a rise in dry hooves. Dry and brittle hoof walls will often crack and chip, especially on solid surfaces. Then a thunderstorm arises and forces the horse to stand in mud for a prolonged time, making the hoof wall soft, with a loss of strength and increased wear. Then the weather gets hot and dry again, and so do hooves. It’s also very common for horses to be frequently bathed and hosed off during summertime.

The mud and muck that comes along with the rainy season can wreak havoc on horse’s hooves. The resulting softening of the hoof capsule not only leads to increased wear and tear, but also creates an ideal environment for the invasion of “hoof eating” microbes that cause thrush and crumbling hoof horn.

Definition, Causes, and Solutions

White Line Disease is caused by bacterial and fungal invasions that damage the medial (middle) hoof wall. These organisms require a nutrient-rich environment that is lacking oxygen to flourish. They are often introduced into the hoof wall at the junction of the sole and the hoof wall. 

Causes, Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

Thrush is a common bacterial infection of the frog of a horse’s foot. The infection “eats away” at the tissues of the frog, sole and heel and if untreated will eventually result in loss of foot structure, increasing sensitivity, progressive lameness, and bleeding.

The hot and dry days of summer typically bring a rise in dry hooves. Dry and brittle hoof walls will often crack and chip, especially with horses that work on hard surfaces. Horses that have long toes, underrun heels and thin hoof walls (like the thoroughbred) are even more prone to develop cracked and chipped hooves during the summer.