Contrary to popular belief, fall grass isn’t dead. It may often look brown, but it is still packed with sugar, and that can be risky for horses. Changes in grass growth as we enter the autumn season can directly affect hoof health in a number of ways that can catch horse owners off guard. We spoke with Ann Andrews, DVM, CVA, with Park Equine Hospital in Paris, Kentucky, just outside Lexington, about what to expect from fall grass.
In the fall, the transition from dry to wet ground creates unexpected challenges for horse care. These seasonal changes not only affect pasture grass but also can have a direct impact on your horse's health. As temperatures drop, they drive changes in grass growth and ground quality.
Sudden storms and dewy mornings have an impact
Fluctuating temperatures and unexpected storms can quickly revitalize dry grass. "It's not as rich as it was, but we get sporadic rains, and the grass jumps. It will come back so quickly that you don't even realize it. The horses are already on it and they're already eating it," said Dr. Andrews.
Photo by Kara Robinson
Even without rains, atmospheric changes can also affect apparently dead pasture grasses. As temperatures drop and the dew point lowers, heavier morning dew forms on the grass, effectively watering it. In this way, grass is receiving moisture daily, which is enough to encourage growth.
Dr. Andrews described what many of us horse people have experienced. "It may not have rained, but if you walk through the field in the morning, I guarantee your boots will be wet. The ground might not be muddy, but your boots will still get soaked. That moisture all the grass needs to come back, and it will, whether you see it or not."
How does dew impact your horse’s hooves?
This same moisture affects more than just grass -- it impacts your horse's hooves as well. In summer, the ground is often dry and hard, causing hooves to become brittle, leading to cracks or chips, especially when the flies are bad. As fall sets in, heavier dew and frequent rain keep the grass and ground wet, creating the ideal environment for hoof problems like thrush and white line disease.
Dr. Andrews says that regular farrier and hoof care is the most impactful way to stay a step ahead of these issues. How can you tell if your horse is experiencing hoof discomfort? Typically, acute or fast-onset lameness in the hoof is demonstrated by a reluctance to put the hoof flat on the ground. You may see something like a horse that seems to be walking on their toe.
The stinky truth about thrush
Thrush has a distinctive smell and generally affects the frog, the "V" shaped structure in the middle of the sole. Anaerobic bacteria and fungi cause thrush. Keeping your horse out of mud and soggy areas is the best way to prevent thrush.
How best to describe the scent of thrush? Some people call it sour, others compare it to sulfur, and many say it has the odor of rotten eggs. Once you catch a whiff or a hint of the classic smell, it's best to keep the feet as clean as you can and make sure your horse is getting regular attention from a farrier.
"If you're getting the feet trimmed regularly, you're losing the ability for that foot to hold onto moisture. You're removing any dead excess foot that shouldn't be there. Excess foot will hold and trap moisture and let the bacteria and fungus sink into it," said Andrews.
Erasing white line disease
White line disease is caused by the separation of the hoof wall. That separation can arise from sustained uneven pressure on the hoof or from hoof distortions. What are some typical hoof distortions? One comes from letting the toe grow too long. This changes how pressure is distributed across the hoof.
Over time, it will damage the structural integrity of the hoof. Separation between the hoof wall caused by distortion creates room for moisture. Moisture and warmth lets bacteria, and fungus creep into the white line area. There are signs and symptoms you can keep an eye out for during the autumn season.
Dr. Andrews says monitoring your horse's hooves, especially after trimming, can be help prevent white line disease. "After your horse gets trimmed, you can see how nice and pretty it looks on the bottom. As time goes on and the dead part of the hoof gets longer, the separation can happen."
Keep an eye out for "dirt, rocks, and debris settling into the white line. The longer you leave it, the more it can move up the foot and cause damage." Make a habit of looking carefully at your horses' hooves as the seasons change. A couple of moments can make a big difference to your herd's hoof health!
Key Takeaways
- Don't be fooled by brown grass—it's still rich in sugar! Despite appearances, fall grass can be loaded with sugars that may increase the risk of metabolic issues in horses. Keep a close eye on grazing habits during this season and consider using a grazing muzzle to help control their intake and protect their health.
- Frequent hoof checks are essential. Regularly picking your horse’s feet—ideally daily, or at least several times a week—helps you catch early signs of hoof problems like thrush and white line disease before they worsen.
- Consistent farrier care is your horse’s first line of defense. Schedule regular trims to prevent excess hoof growth, which can trap moisture and create the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi.
- Moisture matters for hooves—watch out for wet conditions. Dew-soaked grass and muddy conditions in fall can lead to hoof problems. Keeping your horse out of consistently wet areas and ensuring proper farrier care will keep hooves healthy through the season.
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We are so grateful to Dr Ann Andrews for sharing her time and knowledge.
About Ann Andrews, DVM, CVA
Dr. Andrews graduated from Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. She has specific interests in podiatry, dentistry, internal medicine, surgery and radiology. She is a practice associate with Park Equine Hospital.
