Hoof Abscess in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A hoof abscess is one of the most common reasons for sudden lameness in horses. It develops quickly, can be extremely painful, but usually resolves fast with the right care. Understanding how and why it happens helps you act early and support your horse’s recovery.
What is a hoof abscess?
A hoof abscess is a bacterial infection inside the hoof capsule. When bacteria enter the sensitive tissues, the body reacts by producing pus, a fluid that forms as part of the body’s natural response to infection. Since the hoof wall cannot expand, the trapped fluid builds pressure and causes pain.
In short, it is a painful pocket of infection that needs to drain before your horse can feel comfortable again.
How does it start?
Most hoof abscesses begin when bacteria find a way through small openings in the hoof. This can happen due to:
- Cracks caused by trauma or uneven pressure
- Separation between the hoof wall and sole (white line disease)
- Tiny punctures or nail pricks
- Softened horn from standing in wet or dirty conditions
In rare cases, foals under three months can develop abscesses if bacteria spread through the bloodstream.
What does a hoof abscess look like?
Owners often describe it as a sudden, dramatic lameness that appears overnight. Typical signs include:
- Severe or non-weight-bearing lameness
- A warm hoof
- A strong digital pulse near the fetlock or pastern
- Swelling that may rise above the coronary band
- Reduced appetite, dullness, or mild fever
If your horse suddenly becomes very lame but shows no swelling elsewhere, a hoof abscess should be high on the list of possibilities.
How is it diagnosed?
A veterinarian or farrier can usually confirm an abscess through examination. The process often includes:
- Cleaning the sole and white line area
- Using hoof testers to find the most sensitive spot
- Paring the hoof carefully until the abscess cavity is reached
More than 90 percent of abscesses are located beneath the white line. If they are not opened, the pus may eventually burst out through the sole or coronary band, giving the horse immediate relief.
How is it treated?
Once drainage has started, treatment focuses on keeping the hoof clean and allowing the infection to clear.
- Soak or poultice the hoof as advised to draw out remaining pus
- Keep the area dry and protected with a clean bandage or boot
- Provide soft bedding and limit turnout until the sole hardens
- Follow veterinary advice if the swelling extends up the leg, as anti-inflammatory medication or antibiotics may be required
Most horses improve noticeably within 24 to 48 hours after the abscess is opened.
How can you prevent hoof abscesses?
Good daily hoof care makes a big difference.
- Schedule regular trimming or shoeing to maintain correct balance
- Pick out hooves every day and check for stones, cracks, or separations
- Avoid long exposure to mud or wet bedding
- Keep stable floors and turnout areas clean and dry
A balanced diet that supports strong horn growth also helps reduce the risk of infection.
Why hoof health matters for welfare
Even a short episode of pain can affect a horse’s posture, movement, and willingness to work. Consistent hoof care, early detection of lameness, and knowledge of basic first aid all contribute to your horse’s health.
That’s why in the Ridely app, the Horse Welfare Score (HWS) has a pillar about hoof care. It helps you learn key welfare principles, test your knowledge, and track your progress on topics such as hoof care, nutrition, and training.
Source: Ove Wattle, DVM, Associate Professor at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 17 October 2025 (https://hastsverige.se/halsa-skador-sjukdomar/alla-hastkroppens-skador-och-sjukdomar/hovar/hovbold/)
