
Injuries & Illness
What do you do about a lame horse?
My horse is lame right now. He's warm around the pastern/hoof on the right fore and was completely dead lame yesterday morning. When I picked out all his hooves he could walk without lameness, but not trot. We suspect a hoof abscess and the farrier is coming on Monday. Is there anything I can do until then, or should he just stay in the box?
Answers from HayHay's experts
Hello. Since Monday is quite a way off, I would do two things. The first is to call your vet for advice. The second, if you suspect a hoof abscess, is to apply a warm, wet poultice to see whether it helps draw the abscess out.
If your horse is avoiding loading the sore leg, it is a good idea to put a support bandage on the other one to prevent overloading. If he is so lame that he cannot stand, you should definitely contact your vet, unless the farrier can come sooner.
Good luck!

Joanna Sätter
Equine Specialist
