A strong healthy hoof is a flexible hoof that functions as a shock absorber to dissipate excessive concussive forces that otherwise could travel up the leg. Our grandfathers used a sticky smelly pine tar for this purpose. That was the in the days before modern hoof coatings.

The other main purpose of  hoof coatings is to seal out harmful bacteria and fungi. These two organisms have been implicated in the formation of white line disease, an insidious, destructive breakdown of the hoof wall that can lead to resection of the hoof or even having to put the horse down. The tiny cracks that are found in the hoof wall as well as nail holes are an open pathway for these destructive organisms. Not only are all hoof coatings effective in sealing the small cracks, some remain flexible when they cure and can even seal larger cracks and nail holes. This is where we needed to be an educated consumer.

Not all bonded hoof coatings are the same. One class of coatings is made from methyl cellulose which is essentially fingernail polish. These coatings are thin, wear easily, are not flexible enough to stay on a hoof that is constantly flexing. They are incapable of filling in even the smallest crack. They really should go under the heading of cosmetic hoof dressings.

Another class of bonded hoof coatings is made from polyurethane, and extremely tough, flexible substance. It is not watery like methycellulose. It easily fills in the small cracks found in the hoof. The very best products even contain micro-fibers that reinforce the bonding so it can seal up the larger cracks and nail holes. Polyurethane is extremely stable when it cures and it is not affected by heat, cold, or corrosive agents such as fertilizers.

Therefore, when you choose a bonded hoof coating, look for the best, Farrier's Hoof Sealant.