Horse Hoof Care and Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Hoof care is fundamental to horse welfare, with neglected hooves causing pain that affects movement, posture, and overall quality of life.

Key Facts

Horse hooves grow continuously and require trimming every 6-8 weeks
Laminitis — hoof inflammation — is a leading cause of horse euthanasia
Improper shoeing causes pressure points and long-term hoof deformation
Barefoot hoof management is appropriate for many horses and eliminates shoe-related problems
Hoof abscesses cause sudden severe lameness that requires prompt veterinary attention

Welfare Considerations

Hoof health is inseparable from horse welfare because horses bearing weight on damaged or neglected feet experience chronic pain that affects every aspect of their lives. Regular farrier care prevents the overgrowth and deformation that cause long-term structural problems. Laminitis, often triggered by dietary errors or metabolic conditions, causes vascular disruption and bone rotation within the hoof that creates intense pain. Early recognition and management of hoof problems prevents what can become irreversible welfare-limiting conditions.

What You Can Do

Schedule regular farrier visits every 6-8 weeks for all horses in your care
Learn to recognize early signs of lameness and hoof disease in horses
Consult a veterinarian immediately for sudden severe lameness in horses
Advocate for equine welfare standards that include hoof care requirements