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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.