Hoof Clay: Benefits, Application, and a Homemade Recipe

No hoof no horse. The saying is so old I'm sure no one even knows who said it first! Winter is tough on hooves, no matter if they are are shod or barefoot. My own horses have been barefoot for several years now and I do think you 'get away with less' when they're barefoot vs shod. That is to say, things like hoof hygiene are more important than ever when you haven't got a shoe to 'hide' a lot of what's going on.

Now, I can't also lay claim to being the one to even think about using a hoof clay product initially. My sister, who is also my equine podiatrist, recommended using clay last year. You can buy hoof clay products off the shelf or you can make your own very inexpensively. For benefits, application tips and my latest recipe, read on!

Benefits of Hoof Clay

Hoof clay is particularly beneficial in the treatment and prevention of common hoof conditions such as thrush and white line disease. Thrush, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the frog of the hoof (often made worse in wet conditions), can lead to discomfort and further complications if not treated promptly. The antimicrobial properties of hoof clay play a vital role in combating these harmful bacteria. When applied, the clay creates a protective barrier that not only helps to draw out excess moisture but also inhibits the growth of bacteria, promoting a healthier environment for hoof recovery.

Similarly, white line disease, caused by a fungal infection that affects the junction between the hoof wall and sole, can be challenging to manage. The nature of hoof clay allows it to adhere effectively to the hoof, delivering targeted treatment directly to the affected area. Unlike sprays that may wash away quickly or be lost in muddy or wet conditions, hoof clay remains in place, providing extended protection and support. This ensures that the therapeutic agents within the clay have more time to work on eradicating the pathogens and supporting the healing process.

How to Apply Hoof Clay

Applying hoof clay is straightforward and very much about personal preference. All last year I made my clay really quite thick and therefore I was using my finger to pack it in but most recently I've made it the slightest bit thinner so that I can apply it with a hoof brush and not get quite so messy each time I use it (every other day!). Anyway, here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the most out of your hoof care routine:

Clean the Hoof: Start by cleaning the hoof thoroughly. I like to sse a hoof pick to remove the bulk of the mud/dirt, followed by a wire brush to really get a all the grit out of the way.
Dry the Hoof: If the hoof is wet, then I do use microfibre towels to dry the hoof up as much as I can. It really does help the clay to adhere to foot better if you can apply the clay to a clean, dry surface. Tricky in winter (I know) but the microfibre towels do make a real difference.
Apply the Clay: As mentioned it's up to you whether you use a brush or your finger but the idea is to pack the clay into all the crevices of the foot i.e. all alongside the frog, a thing layer over the sole and more to any areas that may be sore or where there is a wound or abscess. Be generous but avoid overloading as it will just fally back out again!
Allow to Set: Ideally, and this depends of your facilities, let the clay set before turning back out. Wet mud is a fiend to everything, and especially to sucking the clay back out of their feet. If you can give it even 30 mins before turning them out that helps. I often will apply my clay before I go for a ride as I use pads and hoof boots and this means the clay is stuck in there and working throughout the ride!
Repeat as Necessary: Throughout winter I try to apply hoof clay every other day. With clay soil as my absolute nemesis, I really do believe prevention is better than cure. In the summer you can certainly reduce the frequency in line with their individual needs.

Homemade Hoof Clay Ingredients

Creating your own hoof clay at home can be a cost-effective and satisfying way to care for your horse’s hooves. Plus it's kind of fun! You don't have to make the same recipe each time and can try varying ratios, add or remove specific ingredients and even see if you can make it pretty colours!

However, the non-negotiables are the the base - bentonite clay - and some form of antimicrobial ingredient/s.

While there are cheaper alternatives available, bentonite clay stands out for several reasons, making it a preferred option for horse owners and veterinarians alike.

High Absorbency: Bentonite clay is renowned for its superior absorbent properties. It can draw out excess moisture and toxins from the hoof while retaining essential moisture needed for healthy hoof growth. This unique quality is particularly beneficial in managing conditions like thrush, where moisture control is critical for healing.
Natural Antimicrobial Properties: Bentonite clay contains natural minerals and compounds that exhibit antimicrobial properties, making it effective in fighting bacterial and fungal infections.
Stability and Adhesion: Bentonite clay has a unique ability to adhere to the hoof, forming a protective barrier that stays in place longer than many other products. This is particularly advantageous in wet or muddy conditions, where sprays and cheaper alternatives may wash away quickly.
Mineral Content: Bentonite clay is rich in minerals that can benefit hoof health, including silica, calcium, and magnesium. These minerals can support the overall condition of the hoof, promoting strength and resilience.
Proven Track Record: Bentonite clay has a long history of use in both human and animal health, backed by research and positive outcomes. Its effectiveness in various applications, including hoof care, has been documented, giving horse owners confidence in its use.

In summary, while cheaper alternatives may seem appealing due to their lower cost, the benefits of bentonite clay—its absorbency, antimicrobial properties, stability, mineral content, and proven efficacy—make it a worthwhile investment for horse owners looking to maintain optimal hoof health.

So the bentonite clay is the base but what else can you or should you add?

Copper Sulphate

Copper sulphate is known for its potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it an excellent addition to hoof clay, particularly for combating infections such as thrush and white line disease. By including copper sulphate in your hoof clay recipe, you provide an extra layer of protection against harmful pathogens that can compromise hoof health.

Epsom Salts

Epsom salts, or magnesium sulfate, are another valuable ingredient to consider when crafting your own hoof clay. This naturally occurring mineral has long been recognised for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

Moreover, Epsom salts can assist in drawing out excess moisture and toxins from the hoof, promoting a healthier environment for healing. I therefore would suggest only adding them in the winter/in wet conditions and leave it out in the summer.

Manuka Honey

Known for its unique antibacterial and antifungal qualities, manuka honey has become a popular choice in both human and veterinary applications, particularly for wound care and infection management. One of the standout features of manuka honey is its potent antibacterial properties, which are attributed to the presence of methylglyoxal (MGO). This natural compound sets manuka honey apart from regular honey, making it highly effective in combating harmful bacteria that can cause infections in the hoof. When incorporated into hoof clay, manuka honey helps to create an inhospitable environment for pathogens, significantly reducing the risk of conditions such as thrush and white line disease.

When added to hoof clay, manuka honey enhances the texture and spreadability of the mixture, making it easier to apply evenly to the hoof. Its viscous consistency allows it to adhere well to the hoof surface, ensuring that the beneficial properties of the honey remain in contact with the hoof for an extended period. This prolonged exposure maximises the clay’s effectiveness, allowing for deeper penetration and better absorption of its healing ingredients.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is renowned for its potent antiseptic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, all of which can significantly enhance hoof care. Its broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity helps create a protective barrier on the hoof, reducing the risk of infection and promoting a healthier hoof environment.

Tea tree oil is relatively easy to incorporate into homemade hoof clay. Just a few drops can add significant therapeutic benefits without overwhelming the mixture. The oil's natural viscosity allows it to blend well with the clay, ensuring even distribution throughout the formulation. When applied to the hoof, the tea tree oil's active components can penetrate effectively, delivering its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits directly to the affected areas.

Leucillin (Hypochlorous Acid)

For a hard-hitting clay, and especially if I'm trying to tackle a particularly persistent case of thrush, I add Leucillin. It's a brand of hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Known for its powerful antimicrobial properties and safety profile, Leucillin is increasingly recognised in both human and veterinary care for its ability to support wound healing and prevent infections.

Leucillin acts as a natural disinfectant, effectively targeting a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. When incorporated into hoof clay, Leucillin provides a potent defense against common hoof issues such as thrush and white line disease. Its ability to quickly eliminate harmful microorganisms helps create a clean environment for hoof recovery, reducing the risk of infection and promoting overall hoof health.

Another significant advantage of Leucillin is its gentle nature. Unlike many harsh chemical disinfectants, hypochlorous acid is non-toxic, making it safe for use on sensitive tissues. This property is especially important when treating delicate areas of the hoof, such as the frog and sole, where conventional treatments may be too potent.

Methylene blue

Methylene blue is a synthetic dye known for its vibrant blue colour and is used in various medical and biological applications, including as an antiseptic and anti-fungal agent. It is effective in treating infections, promoting healing, and serves as a diagnostic tool in laboratory settings.

One of the primary benefits of adding methylene blue (aside from its strong antiseptic qualities) is the distinct colour it imparts to the mixture. I find this really helps visually when applying the clay so that you can clearly see where you have (or haven't) applied the clay.

But we don't just add things for colour of course, methylene blue has been shown to effectively inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, making it particularly beneficial for treating common hoof conditions such as thrush and white line disease. When incorporated into hoof clay, methylene blue helps create an inhospitable environment for pathogens, reducing the risk of infections and promoting a healthier hoof.

Silver

Silver has long been recognised for its powerful antimicrobial properties, making it a popular choice in wound care and various medical applications. Silver ions have been shown to effectively inhibit the growth of a wide variety of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Another significant advantage of using silver in hoof clay is its safety profile. Unlike some chemical treatments, silver is non-toxic and generally well-tolerated by horses. This makes it suitable for use on sensitive tissues, allowing for regular application without the risk of irritation or adverse reactions. When added to hoof clay, silver can provide a range of benefits that support the overall health and integrity of your horse’s hooves.

Homemade hoof clay recipe

So as above, there are a whole host of ingredients that you can utilise in your own hoof clay and I'm sure you even have some of them knocking about in the tack room. Use what you have first of course or whatever initially appeals to you. Here's a recipe I made last week just using what I had in the tack room at the time:

1 cup bentonite clay
1 teaspoon Methylene blue
1/4 cup Leucillin (Hypochlorous acid)
1/4 cup manuka honey.

Instructions:

Mix well: In a mixing bowl, combine the bentonite clay and Methylene blue. Stir well to ensure the Methylene blue is evenly distributed throughout the clay. The blue colour will help you gauge the evenness of the mixture. Gradually add the Leucillin and manuka honey to the dry mixture. It’s helpful to add the honey in small spoonfuls to make mixing easier.
Consistency: Mix the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, consistent paste. You may need to adjust the consistency by adding a little more bentonite clay if the mixture is too runny or more Leucillin if it's too thick.
Transfer to a Container: Once the hoof clay is well-mixed, transfer it into an airtight container for storage. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents.

Conclusion

If you've made it this far then well done as it turned out to be an altogether longer blog than anticipated but I think it's important to consider all the wonderful options available! In summary, hoof clay can be a valuable addition to your horse care toolkit, offering a variety of benefits for your horse's feet.

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