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Back:  Fact Sheets > Horse Care > Hoof Problems
 

What are sand cracks?

This is a general name for cracks in the hoof wall. The cracks can either start at the bearing surface and progress up the foot or start at the coronet and go down. The front and hind feet can both be affected. The cracks are classified by their location. They are termed toe cracks, quarter cracks and heel cracks. Cracks in the hoof wall vary in severity. Quarter and heel cracks are the most serious because they frequently involve the sensitive laminae.

What causes the hoof wall to crack?

Cracks that begin at the top of the foot are the result of disturbances in hoof growth due to coronet injuries, such as wire cuts or interfering. Excessively dry hoof walls, thin walls and improper trimming (such as excessively long hoof walls) cause those cracks initiating at the bearing surface of the hoof wall. All of these factors reduce the strength of the hoof wall making it susceptible to cracking upon concussion. Heel cracks are usually caused when the horse steps on or kicks sharp objects that tear away a part of the back of the hoof wall.

What are the signs of sand cracks?

The split in the hoof wall is obvious. Depending upon the depth of the crack the horse may or may not be lame. If the crack bleeds after the horse has exercised, it is an indication that the crack goes down into the sensitive laminae. Infections in these cracks occur frequently and are marked by a discharge of blood or pus and warmth in the hoof wall around the crack. The lesion is usually quite apparent when an injury of the coronary band causes a crack in the horny wall.

How are these cracks treated?

The treatment of a crack in the horny wall will vary according to the location and severity of the crack, as determined by the veterinarian. Most therapy consists of corrective trimming and shoeing to prevent the portion of the hoof wall around the crack from bearing weight and to limit the progress of the crack.

Toe crack and quarter crack originating at bearing surfaceToe, quarter and heel cracks originating at coronetQuarter crack and heel crack originating at bearing surface

1                2                 3          

Diagrams of various sand cracks.
(1) Toe crack and quarter crack originating at bearing surface.
(2) Toe, quarter and heel cracks originating at coronet.
(3) Quarter crack and heel crack originating at bearing surface.

 

 

 

 

  
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