01/02/2026
🔍 Interesting Case 🔎
This is a photo of a freshly burst hoof abscess.
An abscess is a localised pocket of infection, where the body traps bacteria, dead tissue & fluid (pus). 🦠
There are many things that can cause an abscess, but bacteria often enters through weakened laminae or small cracks in the hoof. This is why abscesses are more common in North Queensland during the wet season 🌧️🐴
Some horses may show very mild or no symptoms, depending on the size of the abscess and their pain tolerance. However, most horses (like this one) will show:
❗ Sudden, severe lameness (this horse was walking on his toe, NOT putting weight on the back half of the foot)
🔥 Heat in the hoof
🦶 Strong reaction to hoof testers
In this case, the abscess burst naturally, and the next day this horse was walking completely sound ✅
If you suspect your horse has an abscess, it’s always worth confirming with your farrier. Feel free to contact me if you are worried or have any questions 🤙
