Complete Hoof Care Guide
Everything you need to know about caring for your horse's hooves
1
How to Apply Hoof Butter
Step-by-step application:
- Clean the hooves: Pick out the feet thoroughly, removing mud, stones etc. Use a soft wire brush to remove excess dirt and help clean the hoof surface and sole before applications.
- A little goes a long way: Our butter spreads across the hoof wall, sole and frog. Apply a small amount using a brush - a little amount of product is all you need for effective coverage and conditioning.
- Cover the hoof wall, sole, heel and frog: Apply to the hoof walls daily and the sole, heel and frog areas weekly ( as often as required).
Pro Tip: For best results, apply after cleaning hooves and before turnout. The natural ingredients work best when given time to absorb.
2
Seasonal Hoof Care Tips
Spring & Summer Care
- Wet conditions soften hooves: Apply hoof butter daily to create a protective barrier
- Dry spells: Hot, dry weather can cause hooves to become brittle. Increase application frequency to maintain moisture balance.
- Grass changes: Rich spring grass can affect hoof health. Monitor for any changes and maintain regular care routine.
- Fly season hygiene: Keep frogs, soles and heels clean to avoid infections.
- Apply to sole, frog & heels: Helps prevent painful cracking in dry weather.
- Pick out feet daily: Helps prevent thursh, packed mud and stones.
Autumn & Winter Care
- Mud management: Wet, muddy conditions require daily hoof cleaning and protective barrier application. Make sure you clean and dry the hooves daily before applying hoof butter.
- Freeze-thaw cycles: Temperature fluctuations can stress hooves. Consistent hoof butter application helps maintain flexibility.
- Snow and ice: Apply before turnout to prevent snow balling in hooves and protect against cold damage.
- Reduced growth: Hoof growth slows in winter. Focus on maintaining existing hoof quality with regular conditioning.
- Wet-to-dry changes stress hooves: Daily conditioning helps maintain elasticity.
- Stable bedding can dry hooves out: Especially on shavings, which absorb moisture.
Seasonal Reminder: Adjust your hoof care routine based on your local climate and your horse's individual needs.
3
Storage & Product Care
Proper storage ensures maximum effectiveness:
- Keep out of direct sunlight: Our hoof butter is made using 100% natural ingredients, exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat may cause the product to soften or become runny.
- Store in a cool, dry place: For best consistency and product quality, store in a cool, dry environment with lid securely on after use.
- Keep lid sealed: Always ensure the lid is tightly sealed after use to help maintain freshness and protect the quality of the natural ingredients and essential oils.
4
General Hoof Care Advice
Daily Hoof Care Routine
- Pick out hooves daily: Remove stones, mud and packed debris to prevent thrush and bruising.
- Clean the frog, sole & heels thoroughly: These areas commonly trap bacteria.
- Inspect hooves regularly: Watch for cracks, heat, odour, thrush or signs of discomfort.
- Maintain moisture balance: Wet-to-dry changes can weaken hoof quality and elasticity.
- Apply hoof butter consistently: Helps condition, protect and support healthy hoof structure.
Professional Care
- Regular farrier visits: Correct trimming/shoeing cycle is essential for balance and hoof health.
- Monitor hoof balance & wear: Uneven wear can affect movement and comfort - discuss this with your hoof care professional.
- Address issues promptly: Contact your farrier or vet immediately if you notice lameness, severe cracks, or unusual hoof conditions.
- Watch your horse move: Changes in movement can indicate hoof discomfort.
Nutrition & Environment for Healthy Hooves
- Balanced diet: Ensure your horse receives adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially biotin, zinc, and methionine.
- Quality forage: Good hay or pasture provides essential nutrients for hoof growth.
- Supplements: Consider hoof supplements if recommended by your vet/farrier, particularly for horses with poor hoof quality.
- Fresh water: Adequate hydration supports overall hoof health and growth.
- Avoid standing in wet mud for long periods: Excess moisture can soften and weaken hooves.
- Stables management matters: Bedding such as shavings can dry hooves out, especially in winter.
- Daily turnout and movement: Encourages healthy circulation and hoof growth.
Remember: Healthy hooves are the foundation of your horse's wellbeing. Consistent care, proper nutrition, and regular professional attention will keep your horse sound and comfortable.