Equine hoof abscess

Yesterday, your horse was sound, but today you find him non-weight-bearing, with no apparent injury. What could have happened? Odds are this horse has a hoof abscess. Eventually, nearly all horse owners will encounter this problem.

Hoof abscesses occur when bacteria are trapped between the sensitive laminae tissue and the hoof wall or sole. The bacteria create exudate (pus), which builds up and creates pressure behind the hoof wall or sole. This pressure can become extremely painful. 

Mostly seen during the wet winter months, hoof abscesses can occur at any time of year. Moisture softens the regions of the foot, making it easier for bacteria to enter. Extremely dry conditions can cause brittle, cracked feet. 

While a hoof abscess takes several days to develop, most horses don’t show any clinical signs until the pressure becomes so great that severe lameness is evident. Changes in blood flow to the hoof cause it to throb; this is evident as an increased pulse in the affected lower limb. Palpation of the coronary band or heel bulbs often elicits pain as well. Horses with hoof abscesses often have swelling in the lower limb due to reduced circulation from not walking on the leg.

Hoof abscess pain is relieved by draining the exudate/pus buildup, which is like popping a large pimple. The growing exudate pressure will try to take the path of least resistance. For some abscesses, this means they will rupture on their own and drain at the coronary band or heel bulbs. Other abscesses will need to be “opened” and drained by your veterinarian. Once drainage is established, a poultice is applied to help pull the remaining exudate from the hoof. Depending on where the abscess drains, you will need to keep the drainage site clean and protected until it has had a chance to dry and harden. For a small percentage of abscesses, they will spread deeper into surrounding structures, requiring prolonged treatment.

Regular hoof care is a key step in preventing hoof abscesses, but there is no guarantee that your horse will be immune to this problem. While difficult to control, avoiding extremely wet or dry conditions can help prevent the formation of hoof abscesses.

Dr Catherine Pemberton BVSc