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Autumn Hoof Care: Essential Tips for Healthy Horse Hooves in Late Summer and Autumn
As late summer gives way to autumn, caring for your horse’s hooves becomes even more important. Wetter weather, lush grass, and muddy paddocks can all increase the risk of common issues like mud fever and laminitis. With a few simple routines, you can help your horse transition safely into the new season and avoid costly problems.
Why Late Summer and Autumn Pose Extra Hoof Risks
During this seasonal change, the combination of heavy dew, sudden rain, and longer periods of damp create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungal issues. Meanwhile, sugar content in grass can spike after rainfall and cooler nights, raising the risk of laminitis—especially for horses and ponies with metabolic sensitivities or those carrying extra weight.
Mud Fever: Prevention and Early Action
What is mud fever?
Mud fever (pastern dermatitis) is a skin infection affecting the lower legs, caused by bacteria that thrive in wet, muddy conditions. It often starts as small scabs or sores on the heels or pasterns and can quickly become painful.
Mud fever (pastern dermatitis) is a skin infection affecting the lower legs, caused by bacteria that thrive in wet, muddy conditions. It often starts as small scabs or sores on the heels or pasterns and can quickly become painful.
Prevention tips:
- Daily leg checks: Run your hands down each leg, checking for heat, swelling, or scabs.
- Keep legs clean and dry: Gently hose off mud after turnout and dry thoroughly.
- Barrier creams: Apply before turnout if your horse is prone to mud fever.
- Stable management: Provide a dry standing area or bring your horse in during the wettest parts of the day.
Laminitis: Why It’s Still a Risk in Autumn
What is laminitis?
Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the sensitive tissues inside the hoof. While often associated with spring, autumn flushes of grass can be just as risky.
Laminitis is a painful inflammation of the sensitive tissues inside the hoof. While often associated with spring, autumn flushes of grass can be just as risky.
Watch for:
- Sudden weight gain or a cresty neck
- Reluctance to walk, stiffness, or shifting weight
- Warm hooves or a strong digital pulse
Prevention tips:
- Monitor grazing: Limit turnout on lush grass, especially after rain or frosty nights.
- Balanced diet: Use a low-sugar, high-fibre diet and consider a balancer or supplement for hoof support.
- Regular exercise: Keeps weight and metabolism in check.
Daily Autumn Hoof Care Routine
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Pick out hooves after every turnout
Autumn mud and stones can pack tightly into hooves, increasing the risk of thrush and bruising. Picking out hooves daily helps spot problems early. -
Inspect for cracks, heat, or swelling
Early intervention is key—look for anything unusual and act quickly if you notice changes. -
Keep bedding clean and dry
Wet bedding can be just as damaging as muddy fields. Regular mucking out helps keep hooves healthy. -
Book regular farrier visits
Even if your horse isn’t in full work, consistent trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth, flaring, and imbalance.
Supporting Hoof Health from the Inside
Nutrition is the foundation of healthy hooves. If your horse is on restricted grazing or a forage-only diet, consider:
- A quality hoof supplement (look for biotin, methionine, zinc, and copper)
- A balancer to ensure all essential vitamins and minerals are covered
If you’re unsure which supplement is best, consult your vet or nutritionist.
When to Call the Vet or Farrier
Seek professional advice if you notice:
- Persistent lameness or reluctance to move
- Sudden swelling, heat, or deep cracks
- Bleeding or foul-smelling discharge
- Signs of severe laminitis (e.g., lying down, obvious pain)
Explore Our Hoof Care Range
For a full range of tried-and-trusted hoof care products, including supplements, creams, and tools, visit our Hoof Care Collection.