The change of season typically spells an increase in mud and wet conditions and though so far this year we’ve fared fairly lightly, our fields and paddocks are now becoming muddier. Mud can cause skin problems in our horses and ponies and their hooves to become saturated. So in our latest blog Scientific Nutritional Products takes a look at managing with mud and how to avoid mud-related leg and hoof problems.
During the autumn and winter months our horse’s hooves can suffer from the muddy and wet conditions resulting in increased visits from the farrier and often the hunt for lost shoes! Hoof growth does tend to reduce during winter time and problems can be caused by prolonged exposure to wet going, as well as the change from wet to dry.
When exposed to repeated changes between wet and dry weather the sensitive equine hooves can be prone to becoming brittle, cracking, splitting as the change in saturation level causes the hoof to alter in shape. When the equine’s hooves are wet the keratin molecules in the hoof swell and absorb water resulting in expansion and then when they dry the foot contracts and changes shape again. This repetition, which is so common at this time of year, can damage the strength and integrity of the hoof.
The hoof horn supports the internal structures of the hoof and when the weather is dry the horn remains hard. When the weather is wet for prolonged periods then water molecules can enter small crevices in the hoof wall and result in excess moisture being absorbed by the hoof. This causes it to become soft and more difficult to keep shoes on securely. If the hoof wall expands and contracts leaving cracks pathogens can invade causing issues such as thrush.
So what can horse owners do to manage mud and prevent excessive foot saturation?
1.) Regular visits from the farrier are essential throughout the year. The farrier will ensure good foot health and keep an idea out for the weakening of the foot, issues such as a thrush and ensure the foot remains trimmed and in good balance.
2.) Horse owners should pick out their horse’s hooves daily to check for loose shoes, whether the frogs looks healthy and any smell indicating poor hoof health.
Our horse's skin especially on the legs and heals can sometimes react to bacteria from wet mud. Small cuts and abrasions on the skin can cause the skin to become very sore.
Protecting your horse through supplementing the diet can offer a great way to support hoof health and help prevent Mud related problems on your horse's legs and heals. Mud Manager from Scientific Nutritional Products offers a formula packed full of beneficial ingredients including Zinc, MSM, Biotin, Methionine, Protein and Omega-3. Mud Manger works to help keep the skin healthy and able to fight any bacteria.
For more information on our supplement range or to receive one-to-one advice specific to your horse contact our nutritional specialists on FREEPHONE 0800 032 7774 or visit our website www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk
