Healthy hooves are the foundation of a healthy horse, as a horse spends almost all day on them! Hooves not only bear the entire weight of the horse but also play a crucial role in the mobility and well-being of the horse. The hooves of healthy horses grow an average of six to nine millimeters per month, depending on the age, breed, and environmental conditions of the horses. Healthy hoof growth is important for maintaining strong hooves.
Common hoof problems include hoof abscesses, coronary band issues, cracking hooves, brittle hooves, thin soles, navicular disease, and sole ulcers. These issues highlight the importance of good stable hygiene and the need for a proper diet.
Healthy hoof growth depends on several factors
The average growth rate of a horse's hoof is six to eight millimeters per month. This depends on factors such as the weather, but it is also genetically determined. A healthy hoof has balanced development, meaning that the hoof grows evenly on all sides. This is important for a stable and well-formed hoof. When a hoof grows normally, the horn is strong and resilient, protecting the hoof against wear. Besides horn quality, the hoof wall is also very important. This is the outer layer of the hoof and continuously grows straight down from the coronary band. As a horse owner, you ideally want a hoof wall without any cracks. In an ideal situation, the hooves of horses naturally wear down from movement on various surfaces such as grasslands, sandy paths, and hard surfaces. Natural wear contributes to a healthy hoof shape. However, nowadays horses walk on fewer types of surfaces, making it even more important to have the hooves regularly maintained by a good farrier. This is crucial to keep the hoof in optimal condition.
Horse owners can do several things to promote healthy hoof growth
It is important that the horse's diet is tailored to their needs. In addition to nutrition, sufficient movement is a key factor in stimulating hoof growth. Movement ensures good blood circulation and stimulates hoof growth. Horses kept in a clean and dry environment are less likely to develop fungal infections and other hoof infections. Finally, it is important to closely observe horses so that any abnormal behavior is immediately noticed. Timely intervention when horse owners notice irregular growth, cracks, brittleness, or other anomalies can often resolve issues relatively quickly. Engage a professional in time! Ignoring problems can lead to serious health issues. In short, overall management around the horse is very important for ensuring healthy hoof growth.
A horse with hoof problems can be helped by the use of the MK Horsepower Plate, research has shown significant hoof growth occurring within 30-60 days of treatment. Hoof growth in the forelegs of horses can increase by up to 41% with consistent use of the MK Horsepower Plate. The use of the MK Horsepower Plate stimulates blood circulation; improved blood circulation ensures better delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the hoof tissues, which benefits the growth and health of the hooves. Additionally, the MK Horsepower Plate can help strengthen the hoof wall, as the vibrations densify the horn layer. A densified horn layer ensures hooves that are more resistant to external damage.
The MK Horsepower Plate can be a valuable tool for specific hoof problems. Besides its use in addressing issues, it can also be incorporated into the training schedule of horses for prevention. Our Horsepower Plate Specialist, Ton van den Broek, is happy to assist with specific problems.
