Hoof Abscesses

What is it?  A pocket of pus causing pain in the sensitive areas of the horse’s hoof.

What causes it?  A foot abscess can result from nails or other foreign bodies entering the sensitive structures of the foot, usually via the sole, and depositing bacteria. Abscesses can sometimes develop from sole bruises, or they can develop at an area of separation of the horny outer layer of hoof wall from the softer underlying layer of the hoof, often at the white line. Dirt accumulates in these cracks and the area becomes infected. This often happens in cases of chronic laminitis (founder).

Clinical signs:

• Sudden, severe lameness with reluctance to bear weight on the limb.
• Early on there may be increased heat in the foot and coronary band, with swelling in the pastern and fetlock appearing after 24-48 hours.
• If untreated, the infection may undermine the hoof wall and form a tract that drains at the coronary band.

 Treatment:

• We will attempt to determine the most painful site over

the sole with a hoof tester, and then pare the sole away from that site

with a hoof knife.  The purpose of this is to open the pocket and

establish drainage, which is the primary means of treating a hoof  

abscess. Covering the hoof with a boot or duct tape will help keep the

area clean. After the abscess drains, your horse’s pain should

progressively lessen, to the point of near soundness in 3-4 days.

• Softening or “drawing” of the infected area is also important.  This is accomplished by soaking the foot daily for 10 minutes in warm water with a suitable disinfectant, such as Betadine.   Application of a dressing to the hoof can encourage further drainage.
• Most foot abscesses are routine and uncomplicated, but some take more time to diagnose and treat.  If pain persists, radiographs (x-rays) are suggested to rule out a coffin bone fracture.  Some abscesses require more extensive treatment, a follow-up visit, and possibly the application of a protective shoe.
• Your horse must have a tetanus booster if he has not been vaccinated in the last 6 months.  Anti-inflammatory agents such as Bute are useful to decrease pain and swelling.

  This information is provided as an educational tool and is not intended to replace veterinary care. Please call our office if you have any questions!