Wet Weather Can Lead to Hoof Issues

It seems like since Hurricane Florence hit in September we have not had a break from wet weather. Thrush is commonly associated with wet conditions and poor management. It can be seen in horses who are allowed to stand in paddocks, run-in sheds, or stalls that have excessive manure and moisture. It can also occur in horses who do not get their feet cleaned out regularly. However, thrush can be seen in horses who are never allowed to stand in manure. 

Thrush usually occurs within the frog (the wedge-shaped soft structure of the hoof) and the sulci (the grooves next to and in the middle of the frog). It is caused when excessive dirt and debris get trapped around the frog creating a perfect environment for anaerobic bacteria and fungi. Thrush is characterized by having a strong pungent odor along with a thick black or grey discharge/decaying tissue being present when picking out your horse's feet. The frog will be softer and sometimes tender to touch. If thrush is left untreated it can get into the sensitive tissues in the foot causing lameness similar to that caused by an abscess. 

Thrush can be prevented by picking out your horse's feet on a regular basis. It will also help to keep manure picked up and the area dry where your horse may stand for an extended period of time, such as a stall or run-in shed. 

The bacteria and fungi that cause thrush are not hard to kill so an antiseptic, such as betadine, can be used. Another option is to use a copper sulfate solution. Follow label instructions for the length of time to treat the infected frog. 

Thrush is a disease that is common when conditions are wet, but with proper management can be prevented. You can always contact your veterinarian and/or farrier if you have questions about diagnosing and treating this disease.