Healthy Hooves

Healthy Hooves and Balanced Nutrition:
Essential Care for Horses Over Summer

The health of a horse’s hooves is a direct reflection of its overall nutrition and management. During the warmer summer months, maintaining strong, resilient hooves becomes even more critical, as heat, dryness, and increased activity can place additional stress on the feet. Proper nutrition, regular trimming, and attentive hoof care all play key roles in ensuring your horse’s hooves remain in top condition.

The Role of Nutrition in Hoof Health

A horse’s hooves are primarily made of keratin, a structural protein that requires adequate nutrients to grow strong and resilient. Inadequate dietary protein, or deficiencies in specific amino acids such as methionine, can limit keratin production and compromise the integrity of the hoof wall.

In addition to protein, certain vitamins are essential for keratin synthesis. Vitamin B6 and folic acid support the formation of this vital protein, while biotin has been shown to promote both hoof growth and quality, contributing to stronger, less brittle hooves.

Minerals also play a crucial role. Calcium, zinc, and copper are key cofactors for enzymes responsible for keratin production and help bolster the hoof’s resistance to infection. Ensuring your horse receives adequate levels of these minerals can help prevent common hoof problems such as cracks, brittleness, and infections.

Essential fatty acids are another important nutritional component. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which must be supplied through the diet, support overall hoof health and contribute to a flexible, resilient hoof wall.

Management Matters: Regular Trimming and Hoof Care

Even with optimal nutrition, hooves require consistent care. Regular trimming and shoeing (if applicable) help maintain proper hoof shape, balance, and functionality, reducing the risk of cracks, splits, and lameness. During summer, increased exercise, pasture time, and dry conditions can accelerate hoof wear and dryness, making scheduled trims and inspections even more important.

To sum it up:

Strong, healthy hooves are the result of a combination of good nutrition and consistent management. By providing adequate protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and omega fatty acids, alongside regular trimming and care, you can help your horse maintain hoof strength and quality throughout the summer months. Attention to these details ensures your horse stays comfortable, sound, and ready for whatever activities lie ahead.