Hooves and their Care

14.13 Hooves and their Care The hoof is formed by special skin cells that are found at the coronary band. If the cells at the coronary band are damaged due to injury or disease (e.g. foot and mouth disease), the hoof may become deformed or cracked. Lameness may also result. See page 236.

coronary band

Normally, the hooves of grazing animals do not need any special care. As animals walk on hard surfaces, their hooves are worn-down and are kept at the right length and shape. However, if animals walk only on soft surfaces, or if they are kept tied in pens, their hooves may grow too long and become deformed. When the tip of the hoof grows too long and curls upward, the animal’s ankle joint is bent at an abnormal angle and may cause damage. Keeping hooves trimmed properly will prevent many kinds of foot and lameness problems.

Trimming Hooves

Various instruments can be used to trim hooves, including knives, saws, special hoof-trimmers, and files.

hoof trimmer for goats and sheep hoof knives for any type of hoof The hoof should be cut short-enough and in the proper shape so that it sets evenly on the ground, the ankle is kept at a proper angle, and the animal can walk normally. The animal must be properly restrained during the process or it may become frightened and hurt itself. Horses can be trained to stand still while their hooves are worked on and trimmed. However, cattle and buffalo must usually be cast. Some gentle goats and sheep can be restrained by lifting their foot during the trimming process. Others must be turned-up on their bottom.

Position for trimming the front foot of a horse Shape of a well-trimmed horse hoof (view from the bottom of hoof)

Basic Foot Trimming Advice

Position for trimming Position for trimming the front foot of a goat the back foot of a goat

Trimming a goat Trimming a goat or sheep hoof or sheep hoof

Trimming a goat Normal shape of a well or sheep hoof trimmed goat, sheep, cow, llama and alpaca hoof (view from bottom of hoof)