Infection tracking up the white line is another common cause of a hoof abscess. The white line is the border where the hoof wall meets the sole, and this can become damaged and softened, allowing dirt and bacteria into the inner hoof.
Weather conditions and poor stable management can also predispose a horse to a hoof abscess, as standing in wet conditions for too long can soften the hoof and is a prime breeding ground for bacteria to thrive. Equally, dry weather can result in the hoof becoming brittle, leading to cracks and the creation of additional entry points for bacteria.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https://everythinghorseuk.co.uk/hoof-abscess-qa/#faq-question-1715627278003","position":3,"url":"https://everythinghorseuk.co.uk/hoof-abscess-qa/#faq-question-1715627278003","name":"Are some horses more susceptible than others to a hoof abscess?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Unfortunately, some horses seem to be more susceptible than others, for example those with weak feet or who have had a previous bout of laminitis.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https://everythinghorseuk.co.uk/hoof-abscess-qa/#faq-question-1733261834907","position":4,"url":"https://everythinghorseuk.co.uk/hoof-abscess-qa/#faq-question-1733261834907","name":"How do you treat a hoof abscess?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A hot poultice is a very effective way to draw out the hoof abscess. Depending on the severity of the lameness, and heat in the foot, a farrier can be called to locate the abscess and create a drainage hole. A hot poultice can then be applied twice a day. The entire foot should be sterile before applying the poultice, and a bandage should be used to secure. See below for more information.","inLanguage":"en-GB"},"inLanguage":"en-GB"}]}
What causes a hoof abscess in horses? In this article, we look at some frequently asked questions about hoof abscesses, including describing common causes and what to do when you think your horse has one. Q&A What is a hoof abscess? A hoof abscess is an infection caused by bacteria, and other debris penetrating the horse’s hoof. A pocket of pus forms, and as the abscess gets larger, it becomes acutely painful. The pain can come on rapidly, and the horse or pony will be significantly lame and unable to…
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Suzanne Ashton: BA (Hons) in Marketing Management, Diploma in Equine Studies, B.E.M.A Member. An entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in marketing, publishing, content curation, editing, and media writing. Avid equestrian, riding since the age of 5 and owning horses for over 35 years. Proud mum to humans, dogs, and a horse.