International Hoof Care Month is commemorated annually every February.

February marks International Hoof Care Month, dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of proper hoof maintenance in horses. While often overlooked, hoof care is fundamental to a horse’s overall health, soundness and performance. As the saying goes, “No hoof, no horse” – a reminder that even the most well-bred, well-trained horse cannot perform without strong, healthy hooves. This piece explores the intricacies of hoof health, the risks of neglect, and best practices to ensure horses remain comfortable, mobile and able to perform at their peak.

Why hoof care is essential

Horses with well-maintained hooves are less likely to suffer from painful conditions that limit their movement, speed or endurance. On the other hand, neglected hooves can result in severe issues, such as chronic lameness, loss of performance capabilities, and even permanent damage. 

The hoof is a complex structure that serves as the foundation of a horse’s body, supporting its weight and absorbing the shock of movement. Proper hoof care ensures the horse’s comfort, mobility and longevity. To appreciate the importance of hoof care it is crucial to understand what makes up a horse’s hoof. The outer hard keratin structure, like human nails, bears weight and protects the internal structures. The bottom of the hoof consists of a sole and a frog (a V-shaped structure on the sole), which is responsible for shock absorption and providing traction during movement. 

One of the most crucial parts of a horse’s hoof is the lamellae—tiny sheets of soft tissue with finger-like projections that connect the hoof wall to the underlying bone. When these lamellae become inflamed and damaged, a serious condition called laminitis can develop, which may be life-threatening. Several factors can trigger laminitis, including overfeeding high-carbohydrate feed (grain overload) and metabolic disorders like Cushing’s disease or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), which affect carbohydrate metabolism. Horses suffering from severe colic, diarrhoea, or pneumonia – especially mares with a retained placenta after birth – are also at high risk. Less commonly, stress, excessive foot trimming or improper shoeing can contribute to the onset of laminitis.

Hoof care 101

The basic principles of hoof care are based on regular trimming, as horses’ hooves grow constantly. Trimming ensures they remain balanced and don’t become overgrown, which can lead to lameness and other issues. Shoeing horses involved in heavy work or ridden on hard surfaces will protect the hoof and improve traction during work. 

Corrective trimming and shoeing or the placement of special shoes to address issues like uneven wear and deformities play an important part in the longevity of a horse’s career and athletic performance. An emphasis on hygiene and cleaning, especially during the wet season, prevents build-up of dirt, mud and bacteria that can lead to thrush (a bacterial or fungal infection that affects the frog of the hoof) and infections (such as abscesses). 

Primary benefits of hoof care

A healthy hoof care routine for horses helps foster many positive health effects: