CORNS IN Horses

Corns
Bruise of the sole at the back of the hoof at the angle between the wall and the bars
Improper shoeing or poor hoof trimming A “corn” is most common in the forefeet on the inner buttress and can be caused by 

Corns are described as dry (only mild bruising), moist (serous exudate present), or suppurative (infected or abscessed). Bruising may be associated with lameness, depending on the severity. When the foot is raised and the solar surface freed of dirt and loose horn, a discoloration, either red or reddish yellow, may be noted. Pressure on the affected area with hoof testers usually causes varying degrees of discomfort, again depending on the severity of the lesion.

CAUSES

- Yellow or red discoloration of the sole, usually on the front feet 

- Possible lameness 

- Soreness of the area when using a hoof tester

- Area of corn may become abscessed

TREATMENT

- Consult your veterinarian

- Corrective trimming 

- Shoeing to protect and transfer weight from the bruised area 

- Draining of the area if there is an abscess

PREVENTION 

- Proper hoof trimming and shoeing