The foot, its related structures and the role of biomechanics are often top of mind as hoof-care providers when assessing health and soundness. When managing laminitis or other pathologies, metabolic monitoring and veterinary teamwork come into play. Though, other aspects of equine health may not feel relevant to farriers.

However, in the same way humans can be positively or negatively affected by the food we eat, so can horses. And it can have a big impact on hoof health. Keeping nutrition in mind when assessing the cause of poor hooves or as a form of preventative care can help the horse and farrier down the line. 

Nutrition & the Hoof

“Every cell in the horse’s body is like a tiny battery-powered factory,” says Eleanor Kellon, VMD, of the Equine Cushing’s and Insulin Resistance Group. “Like all batteries, it depends on a very specific balance of ions (minerals) to operate. The factory is fueled by calories in the form of carbohydrates, fats, protein and fermentation products from the hindgut. These are used to manufacture the products it needs – enzymes, membranes and proteins of many…