Wet and muddy conditions can lead to various hoof problems in horses. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments is crucial for maintaining hoof health during the wet season. Below, we outline common issues and recommend products available at Saddleworld Dural to help manage and prevent these conditions.

Greasy heel, also referred to as mud fever, is a common condition during the wetter months. It affects the skin on the back of the pastern and can cause painful inflammation if not treated early.

• Crusty scabs or sores on the pasterns

• Redness, swelling, or weeping skin

• Hair loss and discomfort

• Mild lameness in some cases

  
  

Daily leg checks and towel-drying your horse’s legs after turnout can go a long way in preventing infection.

• Woof Wear Mud Fever Boot : Provides a breathable barrier to keep legs dry and clean.

• Kelato Quik Heal : A powerful antifungal and antibacterial ointment to treat greasy heel, rain scald, and minor skin infections.

• Equine Super Goo Cream - Original : A versatile ointment effective for wounds, rashes, and fungal issues.

Thrush is a bacterial infection that thrives in damp, dirty environments. It targets the soft tissue of the hoof and can become serious if left unmanaged.

• Unsanitary, damp stable conditions.

• Poor hoof hygiene leading to bacterial growth in the frog area.

• Foul-smelling discharge from the hoof.

• Black, tarry substance in the frog grooves.

• Sensitivity when cleaning the hoof.

Regular hoof cleaning and ensuring dry bedding can significantly reduce the risk of thrush. Incorporating hoof disinfectants into the routine can be beneficial.

• Hyposem White Relief Cream : Supports healing of skin irritations and minor injuries.

• The Hoof Co Beeswax Pink Balls : Malleable hoof putty that repels moisture and debris.

• Comfortmix Thrush Treatment : Fights hoof infections like thrush and white line disease.

• The Hoof Co Hoof Pack: A mix of clays and minerals to draw out moisture and pathogens.

Hoof abscesses occur when bacteria become trapped inside the hoof, often after a crack or bruise. Wet weather increases the risk by softening the hoof and making it more prone to damage.

• Bacteria entering through cracks or punctures in the hoof.

• Wet conditions softening the hoof, making it more susceptible.

• Sudden onset of lameness.

• Heat and swelling in the hoof.

• Pus discharge once the abscess drains.

Prompt identification and treatment of abscesses are crucial. Keeping hooves clean and dry can prevent bacteria from entering and causing infections.

• Medi-Vet Hoof Poultice Pads : Used to draw out infection and reduce inflammation in abscessed hooves.

• Animalintex : A versatile poultice for treating hoof abscesses, wounds, and bruising.

• Medi-Vet Elasto-Plast : Provides flexible and secure hoof bandaging to hold poultices in place.

• Medi-Vet Vet-Wrap : Self-adhesive bandage ideal for protecting treated hooves and securing dressings.

Prevention is always better than cure. In consistently wet conditions, daily hoof care becomes vital to prevent moisture-related issues and to maintain strong, healthy hooves.

• Hoof walls weaken and become porous in water

• Soft hooves are more prone to cracks, thrush, and abscesses

• Moisture also increases fungal and bacterial risk

Keep hooves trimmed, pick them out daily, and use hoof sealants regularly. Feed supplements with biotin and zinc to support hoof growth.

• Kelato Hoof Prime :
  Strengthens and protects hooves against moisture. Its antimicrobial formula helps reduce bacterial and fungal infections in wet conditions.

• CDM Cornucrescine Daily Hoof Dressing : Provides daily protection and nourishment.

• The Hoof Co Horse Spray With Kunzea Oil: Blasts cracks and crevices free of pathogens.

• Keratex Hoof Hardener  : Strengthens weak or cracked hooves and protects them from softening in wet conditions.

• Hawthorne Hoof Freeze  : Provides fast relief from soreness and inflammation caused by bruising or hard surfaces.

Explore all hoof care essentials now at Saddleworld Dural  .