10/13/2026
A hoof abscess is a localized bacterial infection within the hoof capsule. Youch!! As the infection grows it puts pressure on the structures inside and causes pain. Horses with an abscess need the pressure released! If your vet is not available that same day, YOU can stabilize your horse by following these steps:
🔸Clean out the painful hoof
🔸Soak the hoof in an Epsom salt bath- Ideally, 20min
🔸Apply a poultice to the bottom of the hoof to draw out the infection
🔸Cover the bottom of the hoof in tin foil
🔸Apply a diaper over the tin foil & diaper
🔸Wrap the diaper/hoof in Vetwrap
🔸Apply a hood boot (duct tape works great!)
Check it in 24 hours to see if the infection came out. If not, repeat the above steps*
