Some of the most common horsehoof problems can happen to the healthiest of feet, so it’s important to know what to look out for and what to do in case problems arise.
Do you know the common horse hoof problems? Let’s read this article below to find out the answer!
Abscess
This is the most common horse hoof problem that can not be ignored. Here are the causes;
1.) Bacteria
Horse hooves can be damaged by exposure to nails, screws, and glass, and all three can leave bacteria behind. When germs become trapped inside the hoof, the result is known as an abscess. In addition, the horseshoe inside the white line (the area where the hoof wall makes touch with the base) might foster the growth of bacteria by providing the right environment. If the hoof isn’t in good shape, bacteria can get deeper into it, which can lead to an infection.
2.) Environmental factors
Wet weather or a dirty, wet barn can soften hooves and allow bacteria to enter through crevices in the white line.
Changes in weather from dry to wet and wet to dry can lead to brittle hooves that are more prone to cracking.
3.) Improper care
If the you don’t take care of your horse’s hooves properly, you might end up with long, flared toes or bruised heels. Both of these can weaken the white line and make it more likely that your horse will get a hoof abscess.
Hoof Bruise
A bruise can result from any accidental injury to the sole of the foot. The most common is probably treading on a stone or another hard object. Sole trauma can also be caused by shoes that don’t fit right or by working too much on hard ground, especially when not wearing shoes. Thin soles are predisposed to foot trauma in some horses. Here are signals to identify the Hoof bruise;
- The horse may become lame suddenly or appear to recover only to become lame again the next day.
- Lameness affects only one leg at a time in most cases.
Symptoms of Horse Hoof Issues
- When the pressure rises, it brings on a sharp pain and a severe limping sensation.
- In most cases, there are no outward signs of injury or swelling.
- In severe cases of abscesses, the affected leg may swell and become infected further up the limb. There is a possibility of swelling in the coronary band, as well as the pastern or heel bulbs. In most cases, the hoof wall will be warmer, and you will be able to feel pulses near the pastern.
Treating Horse Hoof Problems
- Make sure there is adequate drainage away from the abscess.
- Poultices for drawing ointments that are applied to an area in order to encourage drainage
- A course of treatment using an antiseptic substance that is delivered while the wound is healing
- Horses should be housed in an area that is clean and dry, and their bandages should be changed every day.
Best Hoof Care Practices For Horses
First, the horse’s shoe should be taken off. Then, the damaged sole should be scraped off to make it easier for the horse to walk. If a horse has thin soles, you should refrain from excessive trimming, so the soreness doesn’t get worse.
After that, a bandage should be applied, and the hoof should be preserved. It is important to remember to remove the bandage after it has been on for 24 hours, and then to replace it after it has been on for 48 hours.
After that, trim the hoof, and once the discomfort has subsided, put the shoes back on.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, proper horseshoe maintenance is absolutely necessary if you want your horse to remain in good health and have a long life. If you are concerned about common horse hoof problems, it is best to seek the guidance of both a horse breeder and a veterinarian. I wish you and your horse the best of luck. Remember to follow us so that you don’t miss any updates on new helpful content!
No Comment! Be the first one.