hoof health hrush invades the frog
of the hoof and thrives on necrotic tissue. It is identified by a particularly unpleasant smell and an oily, black discharge. Usually found in the grooves on
either side of the frog, thrush spreads by going deeper, rather than superficially across a tissue’s surface. Conditions conducive to the development of thrush include: - anaerobic (no oxygen) conditions like a dirty stall or persistently muddy paddock - extremely wet weather - absence of or infrequent hoof cleaning - abnormal hoof conformation of a deep central sulcus in the frog
Q: Is thrush a synonym for hoof infection? If no, how does it differ from an infection? Bryan:Tere seems to be some debate whether thrush in horses is more of a fungus or bacteria. Most equine science texts list an anaerobic bacterium called Sphaerophorus necrophorus as the main culprit. However, since thrush can also occur in the mucous membranes of humans, as a yeast-like microscopic fungal form, some argue that a fungal organism call Candida albicans can play a much greater role. Regardless of its origin, one constant remains — prevention. Laura:Horses can be plagued by chronic and debilitating hoof infections. Other bacterial and fungal agents are at play in horses’ feet, causing infection
Recognizing and Treating THRUSH
Farriers Laura Florence and Bryan Farcus answer questions on treating your horse’s hoof thrush
and damage. Some attack the white line and hoof wall, others cause lesions on the coronary band and pastern. Trush is distinct from other infections in that it localizes in the frog.
Q:What is the worst case scenario for chronic/untreated thrush? Bryan: Permanent damage to the frog corium (sensitive underlying tissues), Deep Digital Cushion infection, and in the most severe cases an invasion of the
attachment of the Deep Flexor Tendon to the bottom of the coffin bone, resulting in permanent lameness. Laura: It is possible for thrush to become so entrenched that it can reach sensitive tissue deep in the foot and cause serious lameness and health risk. Severe infection can be identified by compressing the frog with strong thumb pressure and/or hoof testers. Reaction will indicate a deep invasion of thrush.
Having your farrier trim away ragged and loose parts of the frog will allow more air contact, enhancing drying, and make your job of cleaning the hoof easier.
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Home-made preparations to treat thrush include ingredients such as apple cider vinegar, raw honey, and calendula salves. Photos courtesy Laura Florence
Q:What are your favorite treatments for thrush? Bryan:One of my most effective treatments for potential or minor cases is a thorough hoof picking and a hoof wash/spray of a 50:50 mixture of water and either hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar. Caution: do not use this on any cases that have advanced into the bleeding state; instead refer to your veterinarian for advice. Laura:Treatments vary widely and many are effective, with consistent, thorough attention. Clean the frog daily using a diluted agent of a substance such as apple cider vinegar, Borax powder, or Lysol. Gently but thoroughly clean all of
Holistic Horse™ • August/September 2010 • Vol.16, Issue 68
Courtesy Daisy Bicking,
www.DaisyHavenFarm.com
Photos courtesy Laura Florence
see common
thrush symptoms on page 8
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