An unusual case of overgrowth of the hooves in a pony

Abstract

Summary Excessive overgrowth of all hooves was found in a pony confined to its box and a small pasture for apparently 10 years. All hooves were extremely long and curved in a corkscrew manner. The length of both front hooves exceeded the height of the pony. Laminitis had initially been present and insufficiently treated. Later on, trimming was not attempted any more for several years as the owner was afraid of damaging the feet. After trimming, the pony walked in a stringhalt-like manner as it was used to heavy feet for so long. Ten months later, the animal died of colic and its feet were examined again; lengthening and curving had reoccurred. Laminitis was found radiographically on both front feet but not in the hind feet; extreme atrophy of the pedal bones of both front feet was demonstrated by radiography and catscan-examination.