Category_Uutiset · hevoset · hoito · kaviot · kuivikkeet · olkipelletti · syksy ·Sep 17, 2023

Bedding and how it affects hoof health

It is no exaggeration to say that the bedding in the stall plays a crucial role in the well-being of horses. Bedding directly or indirectly affects, for example, adequate rest, stamina and hoof health. The type and quality of bedding used can have a significant impact on the horse's hooves, so it is worth taking the time to choose the right bedding. Bedding is an essential part of stable hygiene management and air quality. In order for a horse to perform at its best, its respiratory system must be in good condition. Approximately 80,000 liters of air flow through a horse's lungs every day, and since we spend a lot of time in the stable in the north, the air in the stable must also be of sufficient quality.

So how does litter affect you?

Humidity control

Bedding that is too wet or too dry is detrimental to hoof health. Excessive moisture softens the hooves, especially the radius and heels, making them more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, such as white streak disease. Excessive moisture can cause hooves to swell and become more susceptible to cracking when they dry out. On the other hand, conditions that are too dry can lead to shrinkage, which can also lead to cracked hooves and other problems. Excessive moisture can soften hooves, making them more susceptible to damage. When hooves are too soft, they are more susceptible to tearing and bruising. Soft hooves can also absorb more shock and strain, which can lead to lameness.

Safety

Having enough bedding in the stall is also a safety feature, as it prevents the horse from slipping and supports the hooves. This in turn reduces the risk of injury and lameness. Too little bedding will understandably create discomfort and stress for the horse when it is unable to rest properly.

Purity

Clean bedding helps maintain a clean environment, which reduces the risk of infection and therefore hoof problems. Dirty bedding is a perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria and pathogens, which in the long term affect the hooves. Prolonged exposure to wet or damp environments can create the perfect conditions for bacterial and fungal infections, such as ray rot. With ray rot, a horse's ray becomes soft, has a foul odor, and may ooze a dark, sticky discharge. The infection eats away at the ray, causing the central groove to deepen, creating more opportunities for bacteria to grow.

Ammonia exposure

Bedding containing urine and manure releases ammonia fumes, which can irritate the horse's respiratory system and also impair the health of its hooves.

The importance of bedding materials

Different types of bedding materials, such as straw, sawdust, peat and pellets, have different effects on hoof health. Clean straw can be a comfortable substrate, but its moisture absorption capacity is quite poor. Sawdust, peat and pellet-based bedding are absorbent, but their moisture content should be monitored by regular cleaning. Moisture can also weaken the hoof wall, especially at the white line. If bacteria or fungus gets inside, it can cause white line disease. Over time, this can cause the hoof wall to loosen and cause lameness. Cleaning stalls frequently and maintaining routine hoof care, such as waxing and shoeing, are important factors in preventing hoof problems. Ask your veterinarian or farrier for recommendations on the best bedding for your horse's needs! Your veterinarian or nutritionist can also advise you on whether supplementary feeds can improve the quality and flexibility of your horses' hooves. Ensure that horses have access to dry areas in pastures and paddocks, even during heavy autumn rains. Drains or mud mats can help prevent standing water and muddy conditions, which can be harmful to hooves. In some cases, it may be necessary to provide covered shelter in the paddock to minimise exposure to moisture. Discover Biohansa's bedding products via this link . Remember to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to receive information about new products and current topics directly to your email. Also give us feedback on what topics you would like to read about on Biohansa's blog! Sources: Get rid of spondylosis with exercise? | Horse info Photo: Pixabay

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So how does litter affect you?

The importance of bedding materials