Horse hooves care

Function of hoof preparations

Hoof preparations have several basic tasks:

Ensure proper moisture and elasticity of the hooves.

Protect against cracking and breaking of the horn.

Strengthen and maintain healthy growth of the hoof horn.

Eliminate or prevent the development of mold and bacterial infections (e.g. silver or rotting hooves).

Help regenerate damaged or weakened hooves.

Preparations can be in the form of ointments, oils, balms, sprays or creams, and are selected according to the needs of a particular horse.

How to use hoof preparations

Hoof cleaning: Before applying the preparation, the hooves must be thoroughly cleaned of mud, stones and other dirt using a hoof hook.

Drying: If the hoof is wet, let it dry slightly - the preparations are applied to a dry surface.

Application: Apply a small amount of the product evenly over the entire horn of the hoof and the torch (the bottom of the hoof).

Massage: Gently massage the product into the hoof.

Frequency: Most products are applied 2–3 times a week, some intensive oils or balms are used daily for dry or damaged hooves.

Types of hoof products
1. Hoof oils

The most commonly used are lanolin, coconut or paraffin oils.
Advantages:

Hydration and softening of the horn

Promotes elasticity and shine of the hoof
Disadvantages:

Can soften the hoof too much if used excessively

Not all oils are suitable for damp or wet hooves

2. Balms and ointments

Contain moisturizing and regenerating substances (e.g. lanolin, wax, vitamins).
Advantages:

Intensive nutrition and protection

Prevention of cracks
Disadvantages:

Higher price

Can attract dust if applied excessively

3. Sprays and liquid preparations

Convenient for quick application, sometimes contain an antiseptic against mold and bacteria.
Advantages:

Quick and clean application5

Suitable for preventing mold and rot
Disadvantages:

Less effective for very dry or damaged hooves

Shorter duration of action

4. Medicinal preparations

Contain antiseptics or ingredients to treat silver and rotting hooves.
Advantages:

Effective in hoof diseases

Prevents the spread of infection

Disadvantages:

Use as recommended by a veterinarian

Less suitable for daily prevention

Benefits of using hoof preparations

Reduces the risk of cracks, breakage and rot

Promotes healthy horn growth

Protects against drying out or overwetting

Helps regenerate damaged hooves

Improves the horse's overall comfort when moving

Disadvantages and risks

The wrong type of preparation can soften the hoof too much or dry it out

Some chemical preparations can irritate sensitive horses

Requires regular use

Excessive application of oils or ointments can attract dirt

How to choose the right preparation

When choosing a hoof preparation, it is necessary to take into account:

the condition and type of hoof (dry, hard, soft, damaged),

the environment in which the horse lives (pasture, stable, humid environment),

purpose (prevention, regeneration, treatment),

the composition of the product (natural vs. chemical),

the practicality of application (ointment, oil, spray),

veterinarian recommendations for diseases.

Tips for hoof care

Clean hooves regularly, ideally daily or after each ride

Check hooves for cracks, inflammation or odor

Apply the appropriate product according to the condition of the hooves

Store products in a dry and dark place

For acute problems, contact a farrier or veterinarian

The most common mistakes

Not using products regularly

Using the wrong type of product

Excessive or insufficient application

Ignoring problems such as rot or cracks

Hoof products are an integral part of horse care. The right choice, regular use and combination with a clean, regularly inspected hoof routine ensures healthy, strong and flexible hooves that support the horse's comfort and performance. Hooves are the foundation of healthy movement, so their maintenance cannot be underestimated.