Horse feed for stronger, healthier hooves

Causes of poor growth and weak hooves

Poor hoof growth and weak hooves can be caused by several factors, including:

Nutrient deficiency: Lack of biotin, zinc, and amino acids can lead to weak and brittle hooves. Activ Mineral contains all of these.

Poor hoof care: Irregular trimming and lack of hygiene can deteriorate hoof quality.

Environmental factors: Wet or muddy conditions can soften the hooves and make them more vulnerable.

Genetic factors: Some horses have a natural tendency for poorer hoof quality.

Hoof cracks – What causes them?

Hoof cracks can be superficial or deep and occur for various reasons:

Nutrient deficiency: A lack of nutrients that strengthen the hooves from within can cause hoof cracks.

Dryness: Dry and cracked hooves are a common problem during hot and dry periods.

Pressure: Improper shoeing or uneven pressure can lead to cracking.

Infections: Fungi and bacteria can weaken the hoof wall and lead to cracks.

Treatment of hoof cracks

Use Caring Hoof Oil to keep the hooves moisturized.

Ensure proper shoeing is done, tailored to the horse's hoof shape.

Use Activ Mineral to strengthen from within with the right nutrition.

Thrush – An unpleasant problem

Thrush is a bacterial infection in the frog that causes a bad odor and dark, damp material.

Causes of thrush

Wet and dirty stable environments, poor hoof care.

Treatment of thrush

Clean the frog thoroughly and use disinfectants. Keep the horse on dry footing.

Use hoof salve to strengthen the frog.

Hollow wall – When the hoof wall weakens

Hollow wall occurs when bacteria and fungi penetrate between the hoof wall and the laminar layer.

Causes of hollow wall

Poor shoeing: Incorrect balance can increase the risk. Poor hygiene can also make it easier for microorganisms to establish themselves.

Preventive measures for better hoof health

Supplements: Use feed that contains biotin, methionine, and zinc, as found in Activ Mineral.

Regular hoof care: Trim the hooves regularly and check the shoeing.

Treatment for very dry & cracked hooves:

√ Rinse and dry the hooves thoroughly.
√ Brush on plenty of hoof oil on the outside of the hoof as well as the entire sole and frog. Massage the oil into the coronary band of the hoof.
√ Repeat daily for at least eight days.

Organic seaweed meal – For horses that need an extra boost, you can also add Organic Seaweed Meal for extra biotin, copper, and zinc, which are present in the seaweed meal.

Caring hoof oil – Contains only selected natural vegetable oils for optimal moisture to the hoof, sole, and frog. Stimulates hoof and frog growth. Tea Tree oil has antibacterial properties. Farriers recommend a vegetable-based oil for hooves for the best absorption ability and to make a real difference for the hoof.