Seedy Toe and How to Fix It
Seedy Toe is where there has been a penetration of some form of foreign substance or microbe into the inner hoof wall. Once there it has an environment to rot or breakdown the structure through decaying moist material or microbe activity.
This causes a weakness in the hoof walland breaks down the integrity of the cell structures. Often seen as a black to greyish white substance. It forms a cavity and separation of the white line occurs.
Causes of Seedy Toe
Causes can include
+ laminitis occurrance and rotation of the petal bone
+ inadequate trimming causing pressure on hoof wall
+ stress fractures in hoof wall from environmental impact
+ injuries which disrupt hoofwall or white line injuries
+ white line disease
With each case, the hoof has to be treated depending on each set of circumstances. but in general the area needs to be opened up to remove any decaying matter, kill the potential for microbes breeding and shape so that further damage does not occurr with consideration for the overall construction of the hoof wall.
Long Term Effect
If left untreated, the potential to permanently scar the dermal tissue which then will create a weakness in the hoof can occur. The infection could penetrate deeper into the tissue and underlying petal bone leading to infection and other problems.
Treatment
Treatment will take time and consistent attention to the affected area.
+ The damaged and infected area must be treated
+ Corrective trimming of the wall may be required to remove the infection or releave the pressure
+ Kill the microbes
+ Cover with a breathable protective layer to assist in preventing further dryness and damage to the already opened cells
+ Constant attention to ensure that the above practices are in place.
Recommended Seedy Toe and Thrush Maintenance Kit
Recommended by leading farriers and barefoot trimmers as a natural effective aid in assisting the prevent Thrush and Seedy Toe problems.

|