Hoof Treatments For Thrush, Fungus and Maintenance Care

Consistency using these treatments is the key to success.

Borax Soak (20 Mule Team) – Antifungal and Cleanser
Dilution - 2 Tablespoons per 1 Gallon of warm water or ½ Teaspoon per soaking boot of warm water. Soak for 30 minutes.
This helps to treat thrush and clean the hoof of dirt and debris. Should you have a separation between wall and white line, this helps to remove the impacted material. It also helps to dry out the hoof after the treatment.
I have used this up to 4 times a week. Once a week for maintenance.

Apple Cider Vinegar Soak – Disinfectant
Dilution – 50/50 or 1 to 3 parts. Soak for 30 minutes.
ACV helps to restore the PH balance in the hoof. It helps to prevent thrush and fungus. For maintenance, spray in the central sulcus and collateral grooves after picking out.

Lysol Concentrate – Disinfectant
Dilution – 2 OZ (no more than this) to 1 Gallon of warm water. Soak 20 minutes.
This helps with severe cases of thrush and fungus. I have used this up to 3 times a week for a bad case of thrush and fungus. Do not mix stronger. After a few initial treatments, I switched to Borax.

Pete’s Potion – (Created by Pete Ramey)
Used for severe cases of thrush and fungus.
50/50 mix of Athlete’s Foot Cream (1% Clortrimazole) and Triple Antibiotic Cream. Mix together and put in a long tipped syringe.
Squirt into the central sulcus and collateral grooves. This helps to open up and heal a deep infected center sulcus. Use daily or every other day as needed.
I will also squirt some in these areas before I put my horse’s hoof boots on before a ride. This will ensure a good treatment for a couple of hours or more. This mix makes a world of difference in a short period of time!

Vitamins and Minerals
Sue Mellen http://wholehorsehoofcare.org/Index.cfm suggested this mix at one of her clinics.

Futurity Precise Hoof Health and Mineral by Zinpro
http://www.futurityprecise.com/1101_HoofHealth_Mineral.php

Blue Seal Min-A-Vite Grass Hay 2:1 Calcium: Phosphorus Ratio
http://www.blueseal.com/equine/winningtouchproducts.php

I have been mixing 50/50 and offering free choice in a dry area. They consume it as they need it. Due to Natural Trimming and the free choice V&M ‘s, my horses’ hoof walls have doubled in thickness. They are strong and healthy.