Knowledge about hooves
Hufkrankheiten

Hoof Abscess and Hoof Ulcer

2 Min. Lesezeit

Table of contents
1. Basics about hoof abscesses 1.1 Hoof abscess or hoof ulcer – what is the difference? 1.2 What happens in the hoof during a hoof abscess? 1.3 Superficial and deep hoof abscesses 2. Symptoms – how to recognise a hoof abscess 2.1 Typical signs of a hoof abscess 2.2 Differentiating from other causes of lameness 3. Causes and risk factors 3.3 Risk factors in husbandry and hoof condition 4. Diagnosis and treatment 4.1 Diagnosis – hoof testers and X-ray 5. Who opens the hoof abscess – vet or farrier? 5.1 Opening and drainage of the pus 6. Healing and aftercare 6.1 How long does healing take? 7. Hoof protection after the abscess – what makes sense when 8. Preventing hoof abscesses 9. Summary FAQ
Opening a hoof abscess

A hoof abscess is a purulent inflammation of the hoof corium. It is one of the most common causes of sudden, severe lameness in horses. Decisive factors for the outcome are a swift diagnosis, professional opening and consistent aftercare. Which type of hoof protection is appropriate after an abscess depends on the context – ranging from an uncomplicated course without additional protection to permanent hoof protection in cases of recurrent issues.

Perhaps you currently have a horse that has become severely lame from one hour to the next, or you simply want to inform yourself as a precaution. In either case: hoof abscesses are unpleasant, but in the vast majority of cases they are easy to treat.


In this article you will learn:

  • what a hoof abscess is from a professional perspective – and why, strictly speaking medically, neither the term hoof abscess nor hoof ulcer is entirely correct

  • how to recognise a hoof abscess – and how to differentiate it from other causes of lameness

  • how a hoof abscess develops – and which factors in husbandry and hoof condition increase the risk

  • how treatment proceeds step by step – including instructions for the hoof bandage

  • how long healing takes – and when the horse can be exercised again

  • what role appropriate hoof protection can play in aft