As a horse enthusiast, you are probably familiar with a hoof condition called "thrush." Thrush is a degenerative condition of the frog of the hoof. Thrush appears as a foul-smelling, black, clay-like material in the area surrounding the frog. Thrush is caused by infections with anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that thrive when no oxygen is present). They eat away at the tissues of the frog, leaving a blackish ooze on the surface.
Just as in prevention of any other infection, a clean, dry environment is a must. A frog consistently packed with manure, mud, or moist bedding can be a hotbed for a nasty thrush infection.
Although standing in urine and manure-saturated mud doesn't cause thrush itself, these conditions can be a precursor to the development of thrush. Some other conditions that may predispose a horse to a dangerous thrush infection include:
Handling thrush takes a three-pronged approach: eliminate the bacteria that cause thrush, manage the horse's environment, and maintain healthy hooves. Consult with your farrier and veterinarian to determine the best program for your horse.
Eliminate Thrush-causing Bacteria
For horses that seem to contract thrush no matter how stringent the management strategy, control of the infection may require daily treatment with a commercial thrush product. If thrush goes untreated, a more serious foot infection can ensue.
Eliminate the Environmental Risk Factors of Thrush
Keep Hooves Healthy
A horse's hooves are the foundation of a healthy horse. A thrush infection can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. With the right management program and tools, thrush can be prevented.