Hoof Rot Home Remedy

Hoof rot is a condition that occurs in horses when they are left in areas that are very moist and muddy. Hoof rot is characterized by lameness, cracked and irritated hoof walls and heels and redness. The structure of the hoof can be compromised if quick action is not taken. Severe cases should be treated by a veterinarian, but if the hoof rot is not advanced home remedies can be tried.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean dry stall
  • Hoof pick
  • Sauerkraut
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Co-Flex
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Move the horse to a clean and dry area. Home remedies will not work if the horse is forced to stand in a dirty and wet area where bacteria can thrive. The horse should be placed in a stall with a clean floor covered in straw. A dry corral or pen that is kept clean will also work.

    • 2

      Clean the hooves thoroughly. Using a hoof pick, and clean out debris and mud from all four hooves. Care should be taken during this step, because the horse's feet may be very sore. Work gently; clean the area with warm water to remove any further debris.

    • 3

      Pack the hooves with fresh sauerkraut. Bagged sauerkraut should be used, but canned sauerkraut can also be effective. The vinegar used in sauerkraut will act as a drying agent for the hoof, while the antioxidants in the cabbage will help speed the healing process. The amount of sauerkraut used will depend on the size of the horse's hooves. The entire bottom of the hoof should be packed solid, with a little excess left over.

    • 4

      Wrap the horse's hooves in plastic wrap. This process helps keep the sauerkraut on the hoof, and seals it from outside debris. Wrap the hoof several times to create a thick barrier. If necessary, add horse boots to keep the wrap from tearing.

    • 5

      Repeat the entire process until the hoof rot clears up. It usually takes one week for the hoof rot to heal, but two weeks might be required in severe cases. Any cases that do not clear up after this period of time should be referred to a veterinarian.