Q: What is seedy toe?

A: Seedy toe is a fungal or bacterial infection found at the bottom of the hoof wall in the toe area. Quite often it’s associated with a breakdown in the laminae, which connect the hoof wall to the pedal bone. If left untreated, the infection and the separation can spread further up the hoof wall.

The condition commonly presents itself as a frayed and damaged portion of the hoof wall around an inch high. There may be areas that appear black from bacterial infection, and there can be a pungent smell.

There are a number of ways that you can keep seedy toe from occurring:

• Regular hoof trimming will help reduce any distortion in the toe, keep the white line tight, remove hoof wall flare and remove any bacteria that may be present.
• A low-sugar dietwill help reduce the chances of laminitis and subsequently seedy toe developing.
• Grass and hay analysiswill help to formulate a feeding plan, potentially with mineral and vitamin supplementation, that’ll ensure hooves are kept strong and healthy.
• Topical treatmentscan include regular application of diluted iodine to help to destroy any of the bacteria present.