To understand why nutrition has such a significant impact on Horse Hoof quality, it helps to understand what the hoof actually is and how it grows.
The hoof wall is made almost entirely of keratin, the same protein that forms hair, nails and skin in other species. Keratin is produced continuously by cells at the coronary band, the area at the top of the hoof where new growth originates, and this new horn gradually grows downward and outward as older horn is worn away or trimmed.
Because the entire hoof wall is essentially keratin building on keratin, the quality of new growth depends heavily on having the correct raw materials available at the coronary band as that growth is taking place. This is precisely why hoof problems are often described as taking months to resolve, since you are not treating the hoof you can currently see, you are influencing the hoof that has not grown yet. A typical hoof takes around nine to twelve months to grow out completely from coronary band to ground.
Biotin, a B vitamin, plays a particularly important role in keratin production and is one of the most researched ingredients in equine hoof supplementation. Biotin deficiency, or even just suboptimal levels, has been associated with poorer hoof horn quality in various studies, which is why it features so heavily in dedicated Horse Hoof Supplements.
Methionine, an essential amino acid containing sulphur, is another key building block, since sulphur containing amino acids form an important part of the keratin structure itself. Without adequate sulphur containing amino acids in the diet, keratin production cannot proceed optimally regardless of how much biotin is available.
MSM, also a sulphur compound, contributes further sulphur availability and is commonly included in hoof formulations for this reason, working alongside methionine rather than replacing it. It is an essential component of connective tissue, the proteins which make up muscle, joints, skin, hair, hoof horn and keratin.
Zinc and copper, often overlooked, are also important trace minerals involved in various enzymatic processes related to skin, coat and hoof health. Deficiencies in these minerals, even subtle ones, can show up as poorer quality horn alongside other symptoms. They play an important part in the formation of keratin and collagen which are vital for sustaining healthy skin, hair, cartilage, bone and hooves.
Understanding this growth process explains why patience is essential when addressing hoof quality through nutrition. A supplement such as Robust Hoof, formulated with biotin, methionine and MSM, is working with the hoof's natural growth cycle, supplying the building blocks needed at the coronary band so that the new horn growing down over the following months is as strong, healthy and resilient as possible. There is no way to nutritionally improve horn that has already grown, which is why consistency over a meaningful period matters so much more than any short term approach.
To find out more or to view our full range of supplements please visit our website at www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk or speak to a member of our team on Freephone 0800 032 7774.
