Rotten fork
We help you understand, treat and prevent thrush in horses using natural ozone-based treatment protocols.
rotten frog
Understanding the Rotten Fork
Thrush is a common hoof condition, caused by the development of bacteria and/or fungi in the sulci.
It occurs more easily in wet or muddy environments, or in horses with weakened hooves.
The characteristic signs are a strong odor, a black or brittle frog, sometimes accompanied by discharge. If left untreated, it can cause significant discomfort, even lameness.
Thrush fork horse
Rotten fork with exudates
In this form, foul-smelling discharge is observed. This indicates an active infection. The horse may be sensitive, and it is important to drain these exudates thoroughly to sanitize the hoof.
⚠️ Important note: be mindful of the toad
When there are persistent exudates and significant sensitivity, the possibility of a toad should always be considered.
Thrush is a hoof condition where hardened, fibrous tissue develops uncontrollably, often in the frog area. This abnormal growth can trap germs, cause chronic infections, and severely bother the horse.
The main difference from a simple rotten frog is the presence of hard, fibrous and invasive tissue , whereas the rotten frog remains soft and brittle.
If in doubt, veterinary or farrier follow-up is advised to confirm the diagnosis and adapt the care.
Recognize thrush horse
Soft, smelly fork
Here, the frog loses its normal consistency, becomes soft, and gives off a strong odor. This is a more chronic condition that weakens the structure of the foot and requires regular care to prevent relapses.
Natural treatment protocol for thrush
Before
After
Before/After treatment protocol
After regular application of the protocol, the frog regains a firm appearance, without odor, and the horse walks comfortably again.
Gaseous ozone allows for deep disinfection from the first stage.
The Hoof Guard / Hoof Stuff / Hoof Fluid trio acts in synergy.
Regular use as a preventative measure significantly reduces recurrences.
FAQ ABOUT THE ROTTEN FORK
General Information
Protocol
Natural skincare products
What are the main causes of thrush in horses?
Humidity, muddy ground, fragile horn.
Is rotten fork contagious?
No, but several horses exposed to the same conditions can be affected.
Why do some forks crack deeply?
Tissues weakened by infection gradually degrade, creating cracks and cavities where bacteria can continue to grow.
Can a rotten fork relapse?
Yes. As long as the factors promoting humidity, contamination or foot imbalances persist, recurrences remain frequent.
Which horses are most at risk?
Horses living in wet, muddy, or poorly maintained environments are more susceptible, as are those with contracted heels or hoof imbalances.
What's the difference between a rotten fork and a toad?
Thrush mainly affects the superficial tissues and grooves of the frog. Canker, on the other hand, is a much deeper and more proliferative condition affecting the tissues of the hoof.
Find all information about canker on the dedicated page for this pathology.
Can thrush in a hoof become serious?
Yes. Without treatment, the infection can progress deep into the foot tissues and permanently weaken the frog.
Is a rotten fork painful?
Yes, in some cases. A superficial lesion may not be very sensitive, but as the infection progresses deeper, the horse may become painful or even lame.
Why does the fork become rotten?
Chronic humidity, mud, lack of foot ventilation, poor maintenance, or poor horn quality encourage the development of the responsible microorganisms.
How to recognize a rotten fork?
Common signs are: strong, unpleasant odor, black or softened frog, deep fissures, blackish discharge, soft or friable tissues, foot sensitivity.
What is thrush in horses?
Thrush is an infectious disease of the hoof, mainly affecting the frog. It is generally linked to the development of bacteria and sometimes fungi in a humid, oxygen-poor environment.
How long does it take to treat a rotten frog?
On average, 1 to 3 weeks depending on the severity
When should you consult a veterinarian?
If the horse is in severe pain or the infection appears to be progressing into the internal tissues.
Why is a customized protocol important?
Each hoof presents specific characteristics: depth of cracks, quality of the horn, age of the lesion, environment, or presence of other hoof pathologies.
Can gaseous ozone and ozonated oils be combined?
Yes. Gaseous ozone, used with Bagging, can diffuse into deep cracks while Hoof Care Ozone and Intensive Care Ozone prolong the action upon contact with tissues.
Why does moisture worsen thrush?
Moisture creates a low-oxygen environment conducive to the growth of bacteria responsible for tissue degradation.
Does trimming play a role in healing?
Yes. Proper trimming opens up confined areas, improves foot aeration, and reduces areas where moisture can accumulate.
Should I continue treatment after the odor disappears?
Yes. Even as the odor fades, deep tissues may remain weakened or contaminated. Continued care helps stabilize the reconstruction.
Why do some fork rots keep coming back?
Recurrences are often linked to a humid environment, lack of foot ventilation, or deep fissures where microorganisms persist.
Why should thrush be treated quickly?
A superficial lesion can quickly become a deep one if bacteria continue to proliferate in the weakened tissues.
What is the purpose of a thrush treatment protocol?
The protocol aims to: sanitize infected tissues, limit bacterial proliferation, promote the reconstruction of a healthy frog, and maintain a drier and oxygenated environment.
What products should be used to treat thrush in horses?
To treat thrush in horses, you need to use Ozone Hoof Guard , Ozone Hoof Stuff and Hoof Fluid .
How often should it be applied?
Daily as a treatment, then 2 to 3 times/week as a preventative measure.
Why do some forks take a long time to rebuild?
The frog grows slowly. Deep wounds, chronic moisture, or persistent contamination can slow down tissue repair.
Do natural hoof care methods always replace farrier visits?
No. Farrier or podiatrist follow-up remains important to correct foot imbalances and improve the mechanical conditions of the hoof.
Can natural remedies be used for prevention?
Yes, certain treatments can be used regularly on fragile feet or those exposed to moisture to help maintain a healthy frog. For fragile feet, use Ozone Intensive Care 2 to 3 times a week on the periople and bulbs. Also, use Ozone Frog Maintenance to protect and strengthen the sole and frog.
Do ozonated oils soften the frog?
When used correctly, their main purpose is to support microbiological balance and tissue quality.
Can ozonated products be used for deep cracks?
Yes, they can be applied in hollowed or cracked areas to help sanitize affected tissues. Use Ozone Hoof Care.
What is the difference between gaseous ozone and ozonated oil?
Gaseous ozone diffuses rapidly into deep cracks and cavities. Ozonated oils extend the protective action on the foot tissues.
Why use ozonated oils on the frog?
Ozonated oils provide prolonged action upon contact with tissues and help maintain an environment unfavorable to microorganisms.
What natural products can be used for thrush?
Natural care aims to: cleanse the tissues, limit contamination, support frog reconstruction, protect weakened areas, and help maintain an environment less favorable to bacteria.