Horse hoof abscesses are a common and often sudden cause of lameness, typically resulting from bacteria entering the hoof through tiny cracks, punctures, weaknesses in the white line, or secondary to a foot bruise. Once inside, the bacteria multiply, leading to infection buildup within the rigid hoof capsule. Because the hoof cannot expand, this buildup creates intense internal pressure, which is what causes the horse significant pain and visible lameness. Signs of a hoof abscess can include hea