Traditional Hoof Oils - Whats in them?

Neatsfoot Oil – a yellow oil rendered and purified from the feet and skin bone from cattle (not the hooves). Best oil is obtained from calves.

Stockholm Tar (or Wood Oil) – a high grade pine tar which, in industry, was used in maritime supplies as a waterproofing agent. It is made by burning pine at low temperature and the tar (resin) is collected as it runs off. The wood is totally destroyed to make the tar.

Silicone – silicone caulk is made by reducing silica sand into a basic silicone oil polymer. Used in the building industry to fill cracks that frequently move. Used in hoof oil to fill cracks and put a coating of waterproofing over the outer part of the hoof.

Animal fat - usually from beef as lard (Neat’s-foot oil) but often goose/duck or emu fat is boiled down.

Eucalyptus Oil – oil extracted by distilling eucalyptus leaves.

Oils used in most hoof oils are usually highly refined and devoid of all natural protective anti-oxidants. The animal fats are already in the process of turning rancid. Chemicals are added to keep the product from deteriorating too quickly.

Use of these substances tend to wear off easily more than absorb in. You are coating deteriorating substances on your horse’s hooves.

Chemicals used include

Chloroxylenol – is a form of pesticide, used for its antimicrobial properties to control bacteria, algae and fungi. Used in adhesives, emulsions, paints, wash tanks, sanitizing bathrooms and laundry equipment. Used to sanitize human bedding and pet quarters. Has been rated on various data sheets, as moderate to low in toxicity. Not significantly toxic to humans or other animals but does kill fish. Can cause skin irritations and trigger allergic reactions. Commonly used in antibacterial soaps such as ‘Dettol”.

Ortho-phenyl phenol - is classified as a pesticide used for its antimicrobial properties as a fungicide and as an antibacterial agent. Has been used as a food preservative but has extremely restricted uses due its properties. Depending on the amount, it is described as highly corrosive, caustic to eye, skin, mouth and gastrointestinal injuries, causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. (PAN Pesticide Database). Studies in rats show that this chemical included in their diet is carcinogenic and lead to tumors forming in the urinary bladder.

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