A team of researchers from Australia’s University of Queensland has determined that the population of a specific type of bacteria increases in the equine hindgut just prior to the onset of laminitis.

We know that basic malnutrition or shortage of nutrients can be one of the key factors of poor hoof growth. Certain specific nutrients can have a very high impact on how well a hoof grows.

We’re veering back into more familiar territory with this month’s nutrition topic. Most farriers have at least a passing familiarity with the role of vitamins in hoof health — and indeed, several play a vital part in the growth of healthy horn and soft tissues.