About hoof abscesses
A hoof abscess can occur when a bacterial infection occurs in the hoof structure and pus forms resulting in pressure that causes pain and discomfort to the horse. If left untreated the pus then works its way up the hoof wall and breaks out through the corony band or the bulbs of the heel.
Symptoms of hoof abscesses
The symptoms of a hoof abscess are that the hoof is warmer than normal and the pulse is stronger. The horse may be unlevel or lame and may have a fever. Removing shoes, cleaning the hoof, and testing the horse's sensitivity to pressure in different areas will help to locate the area of the abscess.
Treatment oof hoof abscesses
Once the area of the abscess has been located a vet or farrier is able to make a very small hole in the sole of the hoof to allow the pus (often with a strong pungent smell) to drain and this will provide immediate relief to the horse from the pressure. The hoof should then be cleaned and a poultice applied to help draw the pus out and protect the sole.
In some cases the point of infection cannot be found or is too deep within the hoof and in such cases a drain hole cannot be cut and there is no alternative but to wait and allow the abscess to work its way up to and escape via the coronary band. This is a slower and more painful process for the horse.
Prevention of hoof abscesses
In order to prevent hoof abscesses carry out regular checks and picking out of the horses hooves.
