Canker

This is a severe bacterial infection which affects the frog and underlying structures within the hoof. It will have a foul smell with a secretion of puss. The horse will be very uncomfortable and will stamp their feet. There may be crusted over hoof horn over growing at the back of the frog or a cauliflower like growth in the frog and heel. As a result of this, the horse may have swollen fetlocks and be reluctant to stand. 

Canker generally originates in the frog and can be mistaken for thrush in the early stages. Thrush is limited to the lateral and medial sulci or the base of the frog if a fissure is present whereas canker invades the horn of the frog anywhere throughout its structure.

Treatment consists of thorough careful debridement of the affected tissue followed by a regimen of topical therapy applied daily and continued until the disease is resolved. A commitment is necessary from the owners, as aftercare will take several weeks to months depending on the stage of the disease until the affected tissue is cornified