Thrush is an anaerobic bacteria that’s easily treated yet is often persistent under lax hoof care.

David Hallock is well acquainted with thrush while providing hoof care in the damp Michigan climate. Although wet conditions contribute to thrush, several factors lead to the buildup of anaerobic bacteria in the frog region.

In a recent webinar, presented by Absorbine, Hallock stresses the importance of farriers understanding the signs, symptoms, treatment options and anticipated outcomes of thrush.

What is Thrush?

Thrush is an anaerobic gram-negative, non-spore forming bacteria that produces toxins, inflammation and tissue necrosis.

“It’s quite often paired with a kera­tinolytic bacteria that breaks down the keratin of the horn tubules and consumes the horn tubules of the frog,” he explains. “The signs and symptoms include a thick, typically black substance that has a distinctive and offensive odor.”

Thrush can impact the frog’s numerous functions, including grip, traction, protection for the underlying structures like the digital cushion, collateral cartilages, the navicular bursa and the deep digital flexor tendon.

“You can wind up with the dermal or sensitive structures involved because as it dissolves the keratinized tissue and necrosis starts to set in, it eats its way back into the sensitive structures,”…