Potential Hoof Injuries

The most common hoof injuries that horses incur are punctures, bruises, and abscesses. When a horse sustains one of these injuries he will often display signs of pain and discomfort. A horse with an injury should be treated and given time to rest and recover before proceeding with a regular exercise routine.

Horse Shoes

Horseshoes are the most important instrument in protecting a horse's feet. The horseshoe serves as a protectorate against cracking in the hoof walls. Horses that are taken out regularly should have the shoes changed approximately every four to six weeks, otherwise the shoe will no longer fit correctly.

Differences in Breed

A horse's hoof health also depends on the breed of the horse. Some breeds simply have tougher and thicker hooves than others. This is important to consider when fitting a horse for horse shoes as well as deciding when to replace those shoes.

The Proper Food

With an inadequate amount of calories, a horse's hooves will grow more slowly and be brittle. Not only should owners consider the amount of food they are feeding a horse, but also the type. Proper nutrients, such as calcium, are vital to hoof growth and integrity. A premium feed will provide any horse the vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal hoof health.