Horse Quittor: Hoof Cartilage Infection and Long-Term Management

Quittor is a chronic, painful infection of the lateral cartilage of the horse's foot that historically caused significant welfare problems and is now better managed.

Key Facts

Quittor involves necrosis of the lateral cartilage of the equine foot, with sinus tract formation
It was historically more common in heavy draft horses working on hard surfaces
Causes include penetrating wounds, blunt trauma, and spread from other foot infections
Affected horses show persistent lameness, heat, and discharging sinuses above the hoof
Treatment involves surgical debridement and long-term antibiotic therapy
Modern management of penetrating wounds has reduced quittor incidence significantly

Welfare Considerations

Quittor causes chronic, significant pain and lameness. The infection can persist for months, with intermittent discharge and recurrent flare-ups that compromise a horse's ability to work or move comfortably. Before modern surgical and antibiotic treatments, quittor was often career-ending and caused prolonged suffering. Today, early identification and aggressive treatment can save the horse and resolve the infection, but the recovery period is long and requires careful wound management. Horses in working conditions where foot injuries are common require regular hoof care and prompt veterinary attention for any penetrating wounds.

What You Can Do

Ensure regular farriery (hoof trimming and shoeing) for all horses under your care
Inspect horse hooves daily for wounds, heat, or discharge — early treatment is critical
Seek veterinary care promptly for any penetrating foot wound in a horse
Support equine welfare standards that mandate veterinary care protocols on farms
Donate to equine welfare organizations that provide veterinary services to working horses
Advocate for proper footing in equine working environments to reduce injury risk