Canker in Horses: Understanding the Condition and How Scootboots Can Help Support Recovery
Canker is an uncommon and often frustrating hoof condition that affects the deeper tissues of a horse’s foot.
While it’s most commonly seen in the frog area, canker can spread to the sole, bars, and even the hoof wall if left untreated.
It’s a condition that requires veterinary attention and diligent care, but with the right management and protective support, many horses can find relief and improved comfort during recovery.
What is Canker?
Canker is a chronic infection of the hoof that causes abnormal overgrowth of tissue, often described as spongy, cauliflower-like, and sometimes accompanied by a foul-smelling discharge.
It’s a condition veterinarians refer to as hypertrophic pododermatitis.
The exact cause of canker remains unclear, but it’s believed to stem from bacterial or viral infection within the hoof tissue.
Traditionally, it has been associated with moist, unsanitary environments or lack of regular hoof care, although it can also occur in horses kept in clean, dry conditions with excellent hoof care.
Draft horses and those on prolonged stall rest appear to be at higher risk.
Canker can affect one or multiple feet, and as it progresses, it can cause pain, inflammation, and lameness due to pressure on sensitive internal structures of the hoof.
Recognising the Signs of Canker
Common signs include:
A soft, moist, white or grey growth on the frog or heel area
A foul odour and thick discharge from the affected area
Bleeding or sensitivity when touched
Lameness or reluctance to bear weight on the affected hoof
Veterinary Care and Management
Canker requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment, which may include surgical removal of diseased tissue, antibacterial or drying medications, and keeping the hoof meticulously clean and dry.
Recovery can take several weeks or months, depending on the extent of the infection.
During this healing phase, protecting the hoof from further trauma and contamination is crucial.
This is where Scootboots can play a supportive role.
A Real-Life Example: A Little Grey Pony’s Recovery Journey
During a recent trip to South Africa, our co-founder Annette came across a case that highlights how canker can develop quietly and how compassionate care can make a difference.
Annette met a little grey pony who had been living in a herd where it was being picked on for quite some time.
Over a gradual period, the pony began to lose condition, but the change went unnoticed until the owner realised something was wrong.
When the owner took a closer look, she discovered that the pony’s hoof had developed a serious infection, which was later diagnosed as canker.
The owner immediately removed the pony from the herd and sought veterinary care.
Two veterinarians and a farrier worked together to carefully remove the decayed and infected tissue, apply medicated dressings, and created a management plan for recovery.
The affected hoof was trimmed, cleaned, and wrapped to support healing.
Thanks to quick action, teamwork, and ongoing care, the little grey pony is now on the road to recovery.
It is a wonderful reminder that early intervention and attentive management can make all the difference.
How Scootboots Can Help Support Horses with Canker
Scootboots can offer valuable comfort and protection during recovery and rehabilitation.
Horses dealing with canker or recovering from surgical debridement often have sensitive hooves that require shock absorption and gentle support.
Scootboots can help provide that cushioning barrier while allowing the horse to remain safely mobile.
Protection and Hygiene
Scootboots can be fitted over a bandaged or wrapped hoof to help keep the area clean and protected from dirt, moisture, and bacteria during turnout or stall rest.
Their ventilation and drainage design help prevent moisture build-up, which is particularly important for horses recovering from canker.
Worn over bandages, Scootboots also help keep dressings secure and reduce the risk of contamination or reinjury while allowing the horse to move comfortably. Using ScootBoots also saves you money by reducing the need to buy lots of vet wrap.
Shock Absorption and Comfort
The Scootboot TheraRide is our dedicated therapy and riding boot designed specifically to support hoof health and comfort.
Its shock-absorbing therapy pad cushions the very sensitive, sore sole that has been affected by canker and reduces strain on the hoof capsule and joints, making it the perfect solution for a horse rehabilitating from canker.
Encouraging Movement
Maintaining gentle, comfortable movement is key for circulation and overall hoof health.
By reducing pressure on sore areas, Scootboots can help horses stay active and comfortable throughout their rehabilitation, even during hand walking or light exercise when approved by your veterinarian.
Why Choose the Scootboot TheraRide?
The TheraRide is the first dual-purpose therapeutic and riding hoof boot, ideal for horses recovering from hoof pathologies such as canker, pedal osteitis, bruised soles, or thin soles.
Key features include:
Therapy Pad Cushioning: Provides shock absorption and comfort for sensitive or healing hooves.
Secure Fit: Designed to stay in place during movement and exercise.
Ventilation and Drainage: Prevents moisture build-up, helping maintain a healthier environment around the hoof.
Durable and Cost-Effective: The therapy pad is housed in a secure cavity, reducing wear and the need for frequent replacements.
Supporting Hoof Health, One Step at a Time
Canker can be a challenging condition, but with veterinary care and supportive management, many horses can make a strong recovery.
Scootboots can play an important part in that process by helping to protect, cushion, and stabilise the hoof while it heals, allowing your horse to stay as comfortable and mobile as possible.
Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
If you’d like help finding the correct size or style of Scootboot for your horse’s rehab journey, our Sizing Team is here to assist.
