Ways to Make Your Horses’ Hooves Better
Healthy hooves are the foundation of a happy, well-performing horse, and they play a crucial role in the overall well-being of your equine friend, providing support and balance during movement. As a responsible horse owner, knowing how to maintain and improve your horses’ hooves is essential. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven ways to make your horses’ hooves better, ensuring they stay strong, sound, and free from issues.
   1. Regular Farrier Visits:
Scheduling routine visits with a professional farrier is vital to maintaining your horses’ hooves. The farrier will trim, balance, and shoe (if necessary) the hooves, preventing overgrowth, cracks, and other potential problems. He also has an expert set of eyes and may notice things before you do, such as thrush or a white line separation, before it can become a more serious problem. Aim to have a farrier visit every 6-8 weeks, depending on your horse’s needs.
   2. Balanced Nutrition:
A balanced diet is vital to promoting strong, healthy hooves to support hoof health, and it’s essential to provide your horse with a well-balanced diet that includes the proper amounts of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. While each horse’s dietary needs may vary depending on factors such as age, weight, and activity level, some essential nutrients known to contribute to healthy hooves include:
- Biotin: Biotin is a B vitamin that has been shown to improve hoof growth and quality. The recommended daily dosage of biotin for horses ranges from 15 to 30 mg daily. Still, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount for your horse.
- Zinc: This trace mineral plays a vital role in the formation of keratin, the primary structural protein in hooves. A zinc deficiency can lead to weak, brittle hooves. The recommended daily zinc intake for horses ranges from 100 to 500 mg, depending on the horse’s size, age, and activity level.
- Copper: Copper works together with zinc to support keratin formation and maintain hoof integrity. The recommended daily intake of copper for horses ranges from 50 to 200 mg, depending on the horse’s size, age, and activity level.
- Amino Acids: Amino acids, such as methionine and lysine, are essential for hoof growth and repair. Methionine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that helps strengthen the hoof’s structure, while lysine is necessary for protein synthesis. Ensure your horse’s diet includes sufficient amounts of these amino acids through quality protein sources, such as alfalfa hay or soybean meal.
- Fatty Acids: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to overall hoof health by reducing inflammation and improving the hoof’s moisture content. Sources of these fatty acids include flaxseed, fish oil, and rice bran oil.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an essential antioxidant that supports tissue repair and overall hoof health. The recommended daily intake of vitamin E for horses ranges from 500 to 2,000 IU, depending on the horse’s size, age, and activity level.
- Calcium and Phosphorus: These minerals are necessary for maintaining strong bones and hoof structures. The ideal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in a horse’s diet is between 1.5:1 and 2:1.
    3. Daily Hoof Care:
Establish a daily routine of cleaning and inspecting your horse’s hooves. Use a hoof pick to remove any dirt, rocks, and debris from the frog and sole. This practice helps prevent thrush and other bacterial infections. Examine the hooves for any signs of damage, such as cracks or puncture wounds, and address issues promptly. Look for excessive wear or loose shoes, which are avoidable hazards.
   4. Maintain a Dry Environment:
Excess moisture can soften the hooves and make them prone to infection. Strive to keep your horse’s environment clean and dry. Regularly muck out stalls and ensure proper drainage in paddocks and turnout areas. Consider using a hoof sealant to help prevent excessive moisture absorption during wet conditions.
   5. Encourage Movement:
Horses are designed to move. Encourage regular movement by providing turnout time and incorporating exercise into their daily routine. Activity promotes blood circulation, which delivers essential nutrients to the hooves and supports healthy growth. It also burns up excess carbohydrates, which can cause other hoof issues, such as laminitis.
   6. Proper Shoeing:
If your horse requires shoes, ensure they are correctly fitted and maintained. Shoes should be replaced regularly, and a qualified farrier should evaluate the fit. Ill-fitting shoes can cause discomfort, uneven weight distribution, and long-term damage to the hooves. Worn shoes can cause traction problems which can cause all sorts of bio-mechanical issues, such as muscle pulls, tendon tears, and falls.
   7. Monitor Weight:
A horse’s weight directly impacts hoof health, and overweight horses place additional stress on their hooves, leading to strain and potential injury. Regularly monitor your horse’s weight and make dietary adjustments to maintain an ideal body condition score.
Conclusion:
Your horse’s hooves are the foundation for its overall health and performance. By implementing these seven practices, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring your horses’ hooves are in top-notch condition. Remember, attention and care go a long way in maintaining strong, healthy hooves and a happy, thriving horse.
