A discussion list for anyone dealing with the condition in equines known as canker. The group is also open to any horse hoof care discussions, especially on related topics such as thrush, abscesses, balanced trimming, etc

Mission: to discuss this so we can pool our knowledge ahout this rare problem. To educate others what canker looks like so treatment is not delayed. To discuss new advances & experiences.

Canker: "a process similar to but more advanced than thrush; the horny frog is generally under-run with a whitish, cheese like exudate, and the entire sole and even the wall of the hoof may be undermined."

Another source states: "Equine canker is a chronic, moist eczematous infection of the foot, with hyper-proliferation of inadequately keratinized epithelial tissue, which usually involves the frog, sole, and then the wall of the hoof, in this order, if the condition is allowed to proceed without adequate treatment."

We know canker is more often seen in larger horses such as drafts, draft crosses, and warm bloods. Some feel that it's correlated with trauma to the hoof and/or extreme hoof imbalance. Anaerobic bacteria can be cultured from a canker foot.

There seem to be different opinions. Some experts recommend only surgery to help. Others suggest oral antibiotics like metronidazole to kill the bacteria. There are a wide variety of treatments out there, but it isn't obvious which one is the best one for most horses. And in some cases no amount of treatment cures the problem, and the horse is eventually euthanized.

DISCLAIMER: This is a chat list and is not run by a veterinarian. Please consult your vet immediately if your horse is lame or has any health problems. Always consult your vet before trying any treatments suggested online.