A horse's hoof tissue is affected by the moisture content of the ground it stands upon.
What causes cracked, dry hooves in horses?
A horse’s hoof is made of a protein called keratin, the same sort of tissue that makes up the outer layers of human skin and nails.
Although the protein is the same, in hooves it is arranged differently into both layers and tubes. These unique layered and tubular structures of the horse’s hoof are affected by the moisture content of the ground it stands upon.
Therefore, hoof condition is often dependent upon how wet or dry their footing is in stalls, paddocks or pastures. Additionally, nutritional deficits or improper management can lead to poor hoof condition.
Which horses are most prone to cracked, dry hooves?
Hoof tissue is affected by the moisture content of the ground it stands upon, so hoof condition is dependent upon how wet or dry their footing is in stalls, paddocks or pastures.
Other underlying reasons for poor hoof condition can be attributed to nutrition and management. A horse that does not have a balanced diet, regular visits from the farrier and regular exercise is more likely to experience poor hoof condition.
How do you treat cracked, dry hooves?
It is important to first see what can be done to alter the environment that is causing the dry or cracked hooves. For growth and maintenance of healthy hooves, balanced nutrition and attention to proper management (regular stall cleaning, farrier care, and exercise) are the best guarantees.
Secondarily, hoof oils can be applied to decrease the rate of moisture loss from the hoof tissue. In a study presented to the American Association of Equine Practitioners, petroleum-based hoof dressings (like Repair) slowed evaporation more than lanolin-based dressings.
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