Mud Season & Hoof Health: February Care Tips for Horses

February in our area usually means one thing for horse owners: mud. Between winter rains, damp paddocks, and soft ground, mud season can take a real toll on your horse’s hooves and overall comfort. Wet conditions create the perfect environment for issues like thrush, soft soles, and cracked hooves, making this the time of year to be extra intentional about hoof care.

Here are some practical, easy-to-follow tips to help keep your horse’s hooves healthy during the muddy months.

1. Pick Hooves Daily (Yes, Even in the Mud)

Mud, manure, and debris can pack into the frog and hoof crevices, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Picking hooves daily helps:

    •    Remove trapped moisture and debris

    •    Catch early signs of thrush or tenderness

    •    Improve circulation in the hoof

If your horse is stalled overnight, make hoof picking part of your daily routine when bringing them in or turning them out.

2. Watch for Thrush and Soft Hooves

Wet, dirty conditions increase the risk of thrush—a bacterial infection that thrives in moist environments. Signs to watch for include:

    •    Foul odor from the hoof

    •    Black, crumbly material around the frog

    •    Sensitivity or tenderness

Soft hooves can also develop in prolonged wet conditions, making horses more prone to bruising or cracks. Keeping hooves as clean and dry as possible is key during this time of year.

3. Improve Drainage in High-Traffic Areas

Mud often builds up around gates, water troughs, and feeding areas. If possible, consider:

    •    Adding gravel or screenings to high-traffic spots

    •    Rotating turnout areas to prevent deep mud

    •    Using rubber mats near gates or feeding stations

Even small improvements can go a long way in keeping hooves from staying constantly wet.

4. Keep Stalls Clean and Dry

If your horse is stalled part of the day, clean, dry bedding helps reduce prolonged moisture exposure. Damp stalls can undo all your outdoor hoof care efforts. Regular stall cleaning and fresh bedding help:

    •    Reduce bacteria and ammonia exposure

    •    Keep hooves drier for longer periods

    •    Improve overall hoof and skin health

5. Stay on a Regular Farrier Schedule

Mud season isn’t the time to push off trims. Overgrown hooves are more likely to trap moisture and debris, leading to imbalance and potential injury. Keeping up with regular farrier visits helps maintain proper hoof shape, drainage, and overall soundness during wet months.

6. Support Hoof Health from the Inside Out

Nutrition plays a big role in hoof strength. A balanced diet that includes quality forage and proper minerals supports stronger hooves that can better handle wet conditions. If your horse struggles with brittle or soft hooves, a hoof-support supplement may also be worth discussing with your farrier or veterinarian.

7. Give Hooves Time to Dry

If possible, allow your horse time in a drier area each day. Even short breaks from standing in wet mud can help hooves firm up. Bringing horses into a dry stall, sacrifice lot, or well-drained paddock can make a noticeable difference over time.

Mud season can be frustrating, but with a few simple management habits, you can protect your horse’s hooves through February’s wet conditions. Daily hoof care, good turnout management, and consistent farrier visits go a long way in preventing common mud-related hoof issues. A little extra effort now can save you from bigger problems later in the season.

If you have questions about hoof care tools, stall bedding, or nutritional support for hoof health, stop by and talk with the team at Manning’s Feed & Seed—we’re always happy to help you find what works best for your horses.