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Abscess Care for Horses: The Exceptional Benefits of Draw It Out® Liniment Spray
Real Rider Resource
Comprehensive Horse Abscess Care Guide (Hoof Focus)
How to recognize a hoof abscess, what to do first, a step-by-step care plan, when to call your veterinarian, and horse-friendly support options from Draw It Out®.
Quick links: Solution Finder · Hoof Care Collection · Find a Store · Dealer Program · Real Rider Resource Blog
On this page
What is a hoof abscess?
A hoof abscess is a localized pocket of infection trapped within the hoof capsule—often from a small puncture, compromised white line, or prolonged wet conditions. Pressure builds until the abscess finds a way to drain, which is why lameness may be sudden and severe.
This guide is educational and not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis. If in doubt, involve your veterinarian.
Related reading: What is Founder in Horses? • Why Our Formula Is Purposefully Minimal • More from the Real Rider Resource
Common signs & early checks
- Sudden lameness (sometimes non-weight-bearing)
- Heat in the hoof and an increased digital pulse
- Localized sensitivity to hoof testers
- Possible swelling up the pastern/fetlock
Rule-outs: stone bruise, nail prick, laminitis, or soft-tissue injury. If pain is acute or you suspect a deep puncture, stop and contact your vet.
Step-by-step care (How-To)
Step 1
Clean & evaluate
Pick out the hoof and rinse debris. If you see a suspicious tract or puncture, stop and call your vet.
Step 2
Warm soak
Soak 15–20 minutes in warm water with Epsom salt to soften the sole and encourage drainage. Dry thoroughly.
Step 3
Poultice & protect
Apply a hoof poultice, then secure with vet wrap and a sturdy hoof boot/tape to keep it clean.
Step 4
Targeted support
Use show-safe topical support around surrounding tissues per label directions. Keep the area clean and dry between changes.
Step 5
Reassess daily
Check heat/pulse and comfort. Replace poultice/boot as directed. If no improvement within 24–48 hours, involve your vet.
Step 6
Aftercare
Once drainage resolves, keep the hoof dry/clean, stay on regular farrier cycles, and adjust turnout to limit reoccurrence.
Drainage should be performed by a veterinarian or qualified farrier to avoid damage to sensitive structures.
When to call your vet
- Non-weight-bearing or rapidly worsening pain
- Suspected deep puncture/sensitive structure involvement
- No improvement within 24–48 hours of diligent care
- Fever, foul discharge up the limb, or extensive swelling
Get help: Dealer & Professional Locator • Contact Draw It Out®
Helpful, horse-friendly support
Draw It Out® • Show-safe
Draw It Out® Liniment
Sensation-free, naturally derived liniment trusted by real riders. Supports daily comfort and recovery around the hoof and lower limb.
Learn more: Why Our Formula Is Purposefully Minimal
Hoof Care • Daily
SilverHoof EQ Therapy®
Daily hoof-care support with a conditioning blend and protective components to help maintain a clean, healthy hoof environment.
Browse: Hoof Care Collection
Skin & Aftercare
RESTOREaHORSE® & Rapid Relief Cream
Skin aftercare and everyday comfort support during recovery—clean, horse-friendly options riders rely on.
RESTOREaHORSE® Rapid Relief Restorative Cream
Explore: All Draw It Out®
FAQ: Hoof Abscess Care
How long does a hoof abscess take to resolve?
Many resolve quickly once drainage occurs; others take several days. If there’s no improvement in 24–48 hours of consistent care, involve your veterinarian.
Can I ride a horse with a hoof abscess?
No. Wait until the horse is sound and cleared by your veterinarian/farrier, then return to work gradually.
What’s the difference between an abscess and a stone bruise?
Both can cause lameness. Abscesses often include heat, an increased digital pulse, and acute pain. Your vet/farrier can confirm with testing.
How can I reduce future abscess risk?
Stay on regular farrier care, manage wet conditions, pick feet daily, and address white-line issues early. See: Real Rider Resource.
More resources
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