Hoof abscess recovery, bone loss & suspected keratoma

Equine Podiatrist: Emma Baker

Horse: Bird, 12-year-old retired Thoroughbred

Background: Bird is a 12-year-old retired Thoroughbred. Following injuries sustained during her racing career, she now enjoys a quiet life as a much-loved and valued family member.

Equine Podiatrist Emma Baker took over Bird’s hoof care in 2020 when Bird moved to the area. A few years into her care, Emma began to have concerns about a small but consistent defect in Bird’s right hind hoof.

Emma wondered whether the defect could be associated with an abnormality such as a keratoma. However, as Bird was experiencing no discomfort at this stage, it was agreed that the hoof would be monitored for any changes.

The persistent defect in Bird’s right hind hoof that prompted ongoing monitoring.

Unfortunately, Bird later experienced sudden-onset lameness in the same hoof, consistent with a hoof abscess. The foot was radiographed, which showed bone loss in the area of concern and raised the possibility of a keratoma.

Radiograph of Bird’s right hind hoof showing bone loss in the area of concern.

The abscess had spread quite quickly throughout the foot and drained from two sites, underneath the hoof and through the coronary band. Although this resulted in extensive damage to the hoof, the drainage provided Bird with immediate relief.

The extent of the hoof damage following drainage of the abscess.

Side view of the damaged hoof during the recovery period.

The resulting damage left Bird vulnerable to further infection. With the dedication of her care team, the hoof was kept clean and dry using veterinary wrapping and Cavallo hoof boots.

Emma and her team were both fascinated and impressed by the way the hoof recovered. Regular, sympathetic and well-balanced trims helped to reduce the risk of further damage, cracking and chipping as the hoof grew and healed.

Continued hoof growth and recovery supported by regular, balanced trimming.

A small defect remains in Bird’s hoof, but with regular hoof care and good hygiene, she has not experienced any further issues to date.

Bird following recovery, with regular hoof care continuing to support her hoof health.