Red Spots in a Horse's Hoofs

Stone bruises can lead to lameness in horses.

Even with regular trimming and shoeing, a horse may become lame for many reasons. One of the most common reasons for lameness is bruising to the hoof sole, easily recognized by red spots or specks.

Causes

A sole bruise occurs when a horse steps on a rock or other sharp object. Occasionally, a sole bruise occurs when a horse forges, and the toe of the hind hoof hits the sole of the front hoof. Horses whose hooves are trimmed too short and those with thin soles are more susceptible to bruising.

Complications

While horses who become lame from a sole or stone bruise usually are only sore for a day or two, some bruises can turn into abscesses due to the buildup of blood and serum in the hoof. Bruises occurring in the angle between the sole and hoof wall are called corns. These often may become infected. If not promptly treated, the infection may form a pathway to the coronet for drainage.

Prevention/Solution

Most hoof bruises can be remedied by the use of shoes or boots. A shod horse that still suffers bruises may need pads. In addition, several products on the market can be applied to toughen the soles.

References

• Kansas State University Research and Extension: Common Hoof Problems
• Horse Hints: Abscesses, Cracks, Sole Bruises and Corns in the Horse
• The Horse: Stone Bruises