
by Suzanne Toomey
What is thrush and how do you recognise it in your horse's hooves?
Thrush is a common bacterial and fungal infection in horses' hooves, particularly affecting the frog, the triangle-shaped cushioning structure on the underside of the hoof. It's sometimes characterized by a foul odor and a black, tar-like discharge. The condition often arises in wet, muddy, or unhygienic conditions, but can also occur in clean environments. Treatment involves meticulous hoof care, including regular cleaning and the application of a suitable product that doesn't harm live tissue. Our Hoof Paste product was developed for this purpose. Preventative measures include maintaining a dry and clean environment for horses to stand on, regular hoof trimming, and ensuring a balanced diet for overall hoof health. If left untreated, thrush can lead to serious complications and lameness, so early detection and treatment are crucial.