Hoof cancer is a chronic disease of the hoof corium. Unlike hoof abscesses, hoof cancer does not cause individual cells to die, but rather leads to uninhibited growth of individual parts of the hoof corium, accompanied by a foul-smelling discharge and a lack of keratinization of this tissue. The term "hoof cancer" was coined due to the appearance of this excessively grown, cauliflower-like tissue, although it is not a form of cancer.
To date, neither bacteria, viruses nor fungi have been confirmed as the cause of hoof rot. For a long time, it was therefore assumed that unhygienic husbandry conditions triggered the disease. However, researchers are now moving away from this hypothesis. Instead, it is now believed that the disease is caused by a pathological disorder of the keratinization process, known as parakeratosis. A zinc deficiency is suspected to trigger this parakeratosis. What is certain is that there are a number of external factors that promote the development of hoof cancer, such as abnormal hoof shapes (clubfoot), incorrect weight bearing, metabolic disorders, and mechanical or chemical stimuli from the environment.
In the past, it was primarily cold-blooded horses that were affected by this disease, but now many warm-blooded and thoroughbred horses are also falling ill. In the early stages of hoof cancer, there is usually no real lameness. However, affected horses may show sensitivity on the sole of the hoof, which becomes noticeable when stepping on hard objects or uneven ground. This can also lead to bleeding in the affected areas. As the disease progresses, affected horses often show only mild to moderate (rarely severe) lameness, as the growths can slowly spread under the sole and hoof wall. On the sole and frog, you can see bulging growths with white, cheesy deposits that give off a foul odor.
If you suspect that your horse may have hoof cancer, you should always consult a veterinarian, who will then work closely with the farrier. Hoof cancer has such a typical appearance that it is unlikely to be confused with other hoof diseases. Only advanced thrush must be distinguished from hoof cancer. Your veterinarian will carry out a thorough clinical examination to gather all the necessary findings and work with the farrier to develop an individual treatment plan. Strict hygiene measures are an absolute must when treating hoof cancer, both on the hoof and in the horse's environment.
Depending on the extent of the disease, hoof cancer can be treated conservatively or surgically. Whether on the operating table or on a standing horse, the proliferating areas of the corium must be carefully exposed by the veterinarian, which means that diseased horn is removed until healthy areas are visible. These sensitive areas of the corium must then be allowed to dry, and the formation of new hoof cancer growths must be prevented. This can be done with the help of dry pressure bandages or new horseshoes. Local disinfectant ointments or powders are applied to the affected areas to support the healing process. The treatment can be very painful for the horse and must therefore sometimes be carried out on an inpatient basis, even with conservative treatment. Even if the horse cannot be worked again during this phase, a minimum amount of free movement should be ensured in the respective form of husbandry. Movement stimulates blood circulation in the diseased corium and thus promotes the healing process.
The chances of recovery clearly depend on the severity and extent of the disease, although very good results can be achieved with a good treatment plan and regular hoof care at short intervals. Close cooperation between the veterinarian and farrier is essential. If the owner also complies with the necessary hygiene and hoof care measures, which are often very time-consuming, there is a good chance of a complete cure. However, relapses must always be expected with hoof cancer.
The most important measures for preventing laminitis are regular hoof care and optimal housing and feeding conditions. Regular blood tests help to determine the horse's health status and compensate for any deficiencies at an early stage.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace veterinary advice. Please contact your veterinary practice directly.
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