Hoof cracks can be a frustrating problem, there’s no doubt about that. Though the cause isn’t always obvious, the majority of hoof cracks are caused by foot imbalance. However, there can be other causes as well, including:
- Improper or neglectful hoof care
- Hoof disease
- Coronary band defects
- Thin hoof walls
- Poor nutrition
- Excessive dryness or moisture
- Trauma to the hoof
Types of Hoof Cracks
There are four general types of hoof cracks in horses:
1.) Toe Cracks occur in the first third of the hoof and mainly affect the front feet. They often occur if the toe grows too long, but can also occur if a horse has white line disease or excessively upright or club feet.
2.) Quarter Cracks are vertical cracks occurring on the side of the hoof. They usually start at the coronary band and move downward. This type of crack can lead to inflammation and possible infection of the hoof. They may even cause lameness. Quarter cracks usually occur in the front feet but can affect the hind feet as well.
3.) Heel Cracks affect the back part of the hoof, below the heel bulbs. They are usually caused by ill-fitting shoes but can also be the result of overstriking. Heel cracks may or may not cause lameness.
4.) Horizontal Cracks result from trauma to the coronary band or from an abscess that has burst at the coronary band. They do not usually cause lameness and will eventually grow out on their own.
Treating Hoof Cracks
The best way to deal with hoof cracks is to first treat any underlying infections. Therefore, seeking the help of an experienced hoof care provider to balance your horse’s hooves is also crucial. Remember, routine hoof care is important to keep the cracks from returning.
If you suspect that moisture or dryness is the cause, management changes may be needed. Nutrition also plays a key role in both treating and preventing hoof cracks. Feeding good-quality forage, adequate protein, and appropriate vitamins and minerals such Icelandic Organic Kelp are all important for hoof quality.
Bentonite Clay
Bentonite clay is another option for treating hoof cracks. Containing more than 70 essential trace minerals, this product can be used to safely detoxify your horse of heavy metals and chemicals. Bentonite clay is known to help with digestive issues, as well improve hoof quality.
The following is a customer review for The Holistic Horse’s Bentonite Clay:
We have owned Charlie for 3 years, and he’s always had brittle hooves. With my husband being a farrier we’ve tried everything to help his feet grow stronger. After a lot of research led me to your website we decided to give the Bentonite clay a try. We are a few months in to feeding it and wow, I’m blown away. He’s gone from barely growing hoof, and what he did grow broke off and was brittle, to nice strong feet that look healthy! Wish I’d tried this sooner! Now we have others on it as well, seeing positive results.