Hoof Care for Wet Weather

Taking care of your horse’s hooves during wet and muddy conditions can be a challenge throughout winter and early spring. Preventative care through management techniques is an excellent way to anticipate and reduce issues. The same can be true for hoof supplements as well. In the event your horse develops Mud Fever, Scratches or Rain Rot, treatment will be critical to control and cure it. 

Preventative Care 

Management techniques

• Provide dry turnout areas & proper stall management to reduce exposure to wet and muddy conditions for prolonged periods of time.
  

• Keep paddocks dry with overhangs or wait until cooler temperatures harden the ground in winter months
  

• Keeping stalls cleaned with dry bedding is a must have year-around.

Dietary considerations

• Adding dietary supplements may support healthy hoof growth.
  

• Individual needs of rider and horse will dictate which supplements would be most effective 

Hoof Care & Maintenance

Consistent Hoof Cleaning and Inspecting 

• Periodically remove mud, manure, & debris from hooves.
  

  
  Image by Freepik

• Inspect each hoof for cracking, infections, or abnormalities. This will help identify issues earlier and enable treatment plans quicker.
  

Farrier Care

• Regular trimming reduces hoof issues like cracking, flares, and chips.
  

• Increase farrier trimmings to promote optimal hoof health during wet months. 

Hoof Treatment

Even with preventative care, horses may be impacted by wet conditions. Issues such as Rain Rot, Mud Fever or Scratches can develop. Having a plan in place to treat issues quickly could make a profound impact. 

 

 

We suggest Muck Off! for your go-to hoof defense! Muck Off! provides an easy roll-on application for simple treatment of affected areas, along with acting as a barrier against moisture and grit. Keep your horse’s hooves in great shape by treating and actively preventing hoof issues with Muck Off!

 

 

 

 

 

*Banner photo by FreePik