As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to drop, your horse’s body adapts to changing conditions — and one area that often gets overlooked during this transition is hoof health.

Fall brings unique challenges: fluctuating temperatures, muddy pastures, increased moisture, and changes in workload or turnout schedules. These shifts can take a toll on your horse’s hooves, making this the perfect time to focus on hoof support and prevention before winter sets in.

1. Changing Weather = Changing Hoof Conditions

During the fall, ground conditions can vary daily — dry one day, damp or frozen the next. These moisture changes cause hooves to expand and contract, which can weaken the hoof wall and lead to cracks, chipping, or soreness.

Soft ground can also loosen shoes or contribute to thrush, while hard, frozen ground increases concussion and stress on joints and tendons.

That’s why maintaining a healthy hoof structure and moisture balance during fall is essential — it’s not just about appearance; it’s about long-term soundness and comfort.

2. Nutrition Plays a Direct Role in Hoof Strength

A strong, resilient hoof starts from the inside out. As pastures lose nutrients and horses spend more time on hay-based diets in the fall, the hoof may receive fewer natural vitamins and minerals needed for growth.

This is where proper nutrition — and supplementation — makes a difference.
Key nutrients like biotin, zinc, methionine, lysine, and amino acids are essential for keratin formation, the protein that gives hooves their structure and toughness. Without enough of these nutrients, hooves can become brittle, slow-growing, and more prone to cracking or splitting.

Oxy-Gen Equine’s Intensive Hoof Care is specifically designed to support healthy hoof growth year-round. Its formula provides targeted nutritional support to:

• Strengthen hoof walls and sole integrity

• Encourage faster, more consistent growth

• Improve circulation and nutrient delivery to the hoof

• Support recovery from cracks, soreness, or weak hoof walls

Adding Intensive Hoof Care to your horse’s fall routine helps ensure their hooves stay strong and protected — even as weather and conditions change.

3. Fall Workload and Circulation

As temperatures cool, many horses experience a shift in their daily activity. Whether they’re transitioning from summer training to lighter work or spending more time stalled, circulation to the hooves can decrease. Reduced movement means less blood flow — and hooves rely on proper circulation to grow and repair.

Encouraging turnout and light exercise can help maintain healthy hoof growth. Combining this with a supplement like Intensive Hoof Care, which supports blood flow and nutrient absorption, gives your horse the best foundation for winter readiness.

4. Preventative Care Saves Time and Stress

Farrier appointments often get stretched out in the fall as the season slows down, but staying consistent with trims and checks is one of the best ways to prevent winter hoof issues.

Clean hooves daily, pick out debris, and check for soft spots or odor that could indicate thrush. Use a quality conditioner or hardener as recommended, and don’t forget that what your horse eats — and absorbs — is just as important as what you put on their feet.

Preventing hoof problems in the fall means fewer issues in the cold, wet months ahead.

Stronger Hooves Start Before Winter

Healthy hooves are the foundation of performance, comfort, and longevity. Taking time to support your horse’s hoof health this fall — both through nutrition and consistent care — helps set them up for success through the toughest months of the year.

Oxy-Gen Equine’s Intensive Hoof Care provides a powerful blend of nutrients that promote growth, resilience, and strength from the inside out — so your horse can stay sound, confident, and ready for anything.