Haylie Pfeffer’s article is a good reminder of the benefits of managing environmental conditions and hoof structure to avoid thrush in horses. Consider it for direct communications with horse owners, social media posts or linked in a newsletter.
Thrush is not contagious, but multiple horses at the same barn could be affected, especially in communal, damp, muddy conditions common to fall and winter. A bacterial and fungal infection of the frog, one can tell thrush is present by a thick, black discharge around it. The bacteria involved in thrush are anaerobic, so trapped mud and tightly packed debris that block air circulation serve as an ideal environment for infection.
Source: The Horse, October 29, 2025. Link. Horse owners can mostly prevent Thrush through proactive management of manure, mud, and paddock drainage along with routine hoof care.
Just being proactive makes all the difference. If you keep the frog healthy and the environment clean, you can prevent most thrush before it ever starts.” – Steve Kraus, CJF
Image: Link.