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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/horse-thrush-conditions

Which conditions tend to cause thrush, the foul black ooze around the frog?

Wet, dirty conditions invite thrush.

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  1. Very dry, clean footing
  2. Wet, soiled footing and stalls ✔
  3. Cold, snowy air alone

Why: Thrush is a degeneration of the frog with a secondary bacterial infection. It shows up as foul-smelling black ooze in wet, soiled conditions. Keeping stalls or barns clean and dry helps prevent it.

Huh, didn't know that: UMN says thrush can invade the sensitive tissues of the hoof and cause lameness.

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References

Answer: Wet, soiled footing and stalls. Thrush is a degeneration of the frog with a secondary bacterial infection. It shows up as foul-smelling black ooze in wet, soiled conditions. Keeping stalls or barns clean and dry helps prevent it.

  1. Caring for your horse's hooves (UMN Extension) extension.umn.edu/node/1221
    Thrush occurs in wet, soiled conditions.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Disorders of the Foot in Horses (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/horse-owners/bone-joint-and-muscle-disorders-in-horses/disorders-of-the-foot-in-horses
    Thrush is a degeneration of the frog with secondary bacterial infection.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Caring for your horse's hooves (UMN Extension) extension.umn.edu/node/1221
    Thrush invades the sensitive tissues of the hoof and causes lameness.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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