What should I do if my horse’s hoof crack reaches the coronary band? | arlo.® Atlas
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Overview
If a hoof crack reaches the coronary band, it’s worth taking seriously and arranging a farrier check promptly. Cracks that high up can be linked to movement in the hoof wall, imbalance, injury, or growth changes, and some need closer management than a simple surface crack.
You can check a few things yourself straight away, but don’t try to trim, pull, or seal the crack without proper advice. The aim is to keep the hoof as stable and clean as you can while you work out what’s going on.
Things To Check
1. Look at whether the crack reaches the coronary band or if it only appears to do so because of dirt or a lifted edge.
2. Check if your horse is lame, pottery, shorter in stride, or reluctant to turn on the affected foot.
3. Feel for heat in the hoof and check for any swelling higher up the limb.
4. Look for discharge, a bad smell, bleeding, or signs that the crack is opening and closing as the hoof bears weight.
5. Note whether the crack is in the same place as a previous injury, bruise, abscess, or hoof wall defect.
6. Check the hoof balance and shoeing history, including when the horse was last trimmed or shod.
7. Review the footing and turnout conditions, especially if the horse has been standing in wet, muddy, or very hard ground.
Common Causes
The most common reasons are hoof wall stress, uneven loading, and a crack that has travelled upward over time. Poor balance, long trimming intervals, or shoes that no longer fit well can all add strain.
Wet and dry changes can also weaken the hoof wall and make cracks spread more easily. Sometimes a crack reaching the coronary band starts after a knock, bruise, abscess, or other hoof damage that’s gradually grown out in the wrong way.
Less commonly, there may be a deeper hoof problem affecting the wall from within, so it’s best not to assume it’s just cosmetic if the crack is high or changing.
What To Do
Keep the hoof clean and dry as far as practical, and avoid picking at loose horn around the crack. Minimise work on hard or uneven ground until the hoof has been assessed.
Take clear photos from the side and front, then check whether the crack changes over a few days. This can help your farrier see whether it’s stable, spreading, or moving with the hoof wall.
If the horse is shod, keep the shoeing or trimming schedule up to date and ask your farrier whether the foot needs support or a change in balance. Good turnout management also helps, especially in very wet or very hard conditions.
When To Contact A Vet
Contact your vet promptly if the horse is lame, the crack is bleeding or widening, there’s heat or swelling, or the hoof looks painful. A vet and farrier may need to work together if the crack reaches the coronary band and seems unstable.
If your horse is very uncomfortable or the hoof changes quickly, don’t wait to see if it settles on its own.
Related Questions
Should I box rest a horse with a coronary band crack?
Can a hoof crack grow out normally?
How do I tell if a hoof crack is serious?
Atlas is here to support owners with practical, easy-to-understand guidance. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you're concerned about your animal's health, symptoms worsen, or something doesn't feel right, contact your vet.