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	Company Profile: FLOWTECH

Thrush

Sally wrote to us with the following query

Hi,
My horse is very prone to thrush and has had an infection in the past because of it.
Starting on his frog and extending to the back of the heel is a vertical crack that is about 1/2 inch deep.
I have to keep it clean and flush it out with hydrogen peroxide every day. But winter will be here soon. Is there anything else I can do. And is there a name for this peculiar fault.
Thanks.

Sally

Thrush is a common disease of the horses frog. It is easy to diagnose, the tissue of the frog becomes soft and cheesy. There will be an offensive odor present not dissimilar to sewage. There can also be an inky liquid discharge.

There may be signs of lameness. Most severe cases are generally located in the cleft of the frog which is the deep area between the bulbs of the heels. The frog has an overall, ragged appearance. The horse may be sensitive when you pick out his feet particularly in the deeper locations and great care should be taken in these areas to avoid causing bleeding. If left unchecked, thrush may spread to the sensitive tissue of the frog and make your horse quite lame. The infection in general leads to degeneration of the frog. In worst cases, thrush can cause enough degeneration of the frog that parts have to be removed by your vet or farrier.

You are correct in flushing out his feet with hydrogen Peroxide, bleach or iodine but be careful not to overdo this as these chemicals can cause burns. If the case is severe, your farrier can fit full pads which will cover the area completely however, a full pad does not allow the foot to be cleaned and if straw or shavings get lodged so the pad can be counter productive. If pads are fitted, you will have to have your horse re-shod earlier than the usual 6-8 weeks.

Basically, you should keep his feet as clean and as dry as possible. Provide a clean stable with fresh dry bedding. Regular farrier attention will help maintain healthy feet. Keep your horse well fed and exercised. A healthy horse is less likely to become infected If the condition persists, check with your vet. Proper nutrition and exercise will help promote healthy hoof growth.

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