Guide to Caring for Horses with Thrush

Written By melanie davies

What Is Thrush?

Thrush is a common bacterial infection that affects the frog and surrounding tissues of the hoof, most often in the central and collateral sulci. It is caused by the invasion of anaerobic bacteria—primarily Fusobacterium necrophorum—that thrive in moist, dirty, low-oxygen environments.

Causes of Thrush

Thrush typically results from:

  • Poor hoof hygiene (unclean stalls or muddy paddocks), infrequent hoof picking

  • Prolonged moisture exposure

  • Poor hoof conformation, deep, narrow hoof sulci that trap debris and feces

  • Lack of regular hoof care or cleaning

  • Use of full pads with shoeing

Signs and Symptoms

  • Foul-smelling black discharge in the frog area

  • Softening or degeneration of the frog

  • Sensitivity or pain when pressure is applied

  • Lameness in advanced cases

  • Cracks or deep grooves harboring debris and bacteria

Diagnosis

Thrush is typically diagnosed through:

  • Visual and olfactory examination by the owner or veterinarian

  • Hoof testing for pain response

  • In rare or severe cases, radiographs to assess deeper infections and ensure no underlying bone/joint involvement

Treatment Plan

1. Clean the Hoof Thoroughly

  • Pick out all hooves daily, focusing on the central sulcus and collateral grooves, stiff brush to remove fine debris. Use our favorite Ultimate hoof pick.

  • Clean with dilute antiseptic solution such as:

    • 2% iodine, Chlorhexidine or Betadine

  • Have your farrier trim away necrotic frog tissue to allow oxygen to reach infected areas.

  • Dry the hoof completely after cleaning.

  • Cleantrax Hoof Disinfectant - I personally love this stuff for resistant or severe cases, or for deep cleaning before applying full pads, or for abscess.

2. Apply Topical Medications

  • Use vet-recommended thrush treatments such as:

    • Thrush Buster (contains gentian violet and iodine) - do not get on skin as it may blister

    • Koppertox (copper naphthenate)

    • Use antibiotic - Tomorrow antibiotic (Cephapirin Benzathine) in applicator syringe, into deep sulcus and collateral grooves

  • Natural remedies (only for mild cases) include:

    • Apple cider vinegar

    • Tea tree oil or diluted essential oils

Important: Avoid overuse of caustic agents (like bleach or copper sulfate), which can damage healthy tissue.

3. Environmental and Management Changes

  • Keep stalls clean and dry - with fresh absorbent bedding, we use Pellet bedding, as it absorbs urine and moisture. pick stalls frequently.

  • Avoid prolonged turnout in wet or muddy areas.

  • Ensure regular farrier visits to maintain proper frog and hoof shape.

Prevention Tips

  • Daily hoof picking and inspection

  • Routine farrier care every 4–8 weeks

  • Provide dry turnout areas or rotate paddocks

  • Improve drainage in wet areas

  • Use hoof dressings or conditioners only as needed (avoid over-moisturizing) - We use Farriers Barrier after shoeing for water barrier, cornucrescine hoof care products (I love the smell of them), and my new favorite; PureSole hoof mud and Hoof Wax - Mud for deep frog sulcus, collateral grooves, and Wax for those cracks and chips.

When to Call the Vet

  • If thrush does not improve within a few days of treatment

  • If there is swelling, severe pain, or lameness

  • If infection appears to involve deeper tissues or structures

  • If there's concern about underlying hoof conformation problems

Conclusion

Thrush is a preventable and manageable condition with proper hoof care and hygiene. Early detection and consistent treatment are key to avoiding more serious infections or complications. With regular farrier visits and a clean environment, your horse’s hooves can stay healthy year-round

melanie davies
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Caring for Horses with Scratches (Pastern Dermatitis)