How to Identify and Treat Hoof Abscesses

Often you will have to wait some time before an abscess becomes apparent, just be patient.

A hoof abscess is an inflammation of the tissues in the hoof. Pus between the structures of the hoof causes pressure and swelling; causing the horse to experience lameness in the infected hoof. Abscesses are common in horses transitioning from shoes to bare feet. While the horse was wearing shoes, the hoof was unable to rid itself of bacteria. After the shoes have been removed, impurities that have long been trapped inside the hoof are able to drain, this drainage takes the form of the abscess. Though an abscess can be worrisome, it is a sign that the horse's hoof is becoming healthier. Watch for the development of abscesses in your horse, as they may need assistance draining.

Things You'll Need

• Animal-lintex
• Vetrap
• Duct tape
• Hot water
• Bucket
• Scissors

Instructions

Identifying an Abscess

1. Observe your horse. Gradually, the horse will become unbalanced and may favor the abscessed hoof.

2. Move the horse gently, movement will cause the abscess to burst and will start the healing process.

3. Feel for hot spots on the hoof. Over time, the point of abscess will grow warmer as the pus finds a spot in the hoof to drain from.

4. Look for an excretion of pus once the abscess has burst. The smell is unmistakable, it will be very pungent. You will also see a small hole where the abscess has come through.

Abscess Treatment

1. Apply a poultice once the abscess has ruptured.

2. Cut a small piece of the lintex to cover the abscess area and submerge it in boiling water.

3. Apply the lintex to the hoof when it has cooled to body temperature, using vetrap.

4. Cover the area in duct tape. This will waterproof the area.

Tips & Warnings

• Horses in muddy fields will not be able to be dressed with the poultice.

• Abscesses often go undiagnosed or mis-diagnosed. Get multiple opinions, if necessary.

• Soaking the hoof in a water and apple cider vinegar mixture can help keep it clean.

• Avoid cutting holes in the hoof for abscess drainage. This can cause more damage.

• Avoid the urge to over-medicate your horse. Natural ingredients such as devil's claw can help ease the pain.

References

• Successful Natural Horsecare: Hoof Abscess
• Heel First Landings: Hoof Abscesses; Paul Wagner

Resources

• The Horse's Hoof: Abscesses, A Misunderstood Phenomena; Rachel Ward