Split Ergot is this an issue? - photos

[Polos Mum]

Spotted today that both back ergots on my 5 y/o are split and growing in different directions (photos for an idea).

I've not specifically checked them before (in 3.5 years!!) but the other horses long ones made me have a look - and I think I probably would have spotted this in 3.5 years of picking feet out ??!?....

He's totally fine, I pulled and prodded them and got no reaction so clearly not sore at all. Is this a common thing I've just never noticed before??

If it was an injury - seems odd for it to be both back legs? Both fronts are normal looking.

 

[Flowerofthefen]

I wouldn't worry. Just ask farrier to chop them off when he next comes

 

[Gloi]

It's very common in heavily feathered sorts. No worry.

 

[MidChristmasCrisis]

As above..my farrier pedicures my girls wherever they need it!

 

[sollimum]

I would add, to generally check his skin under his feathers to make sure he doesn't have any skin issues?

 

[Red-1]

I trim Rigs' ergots every 6 weeks or so, or they split. I just use some nippers.

I also clip his lower legs to ensure that his skin is healthy as it would soon get scabby if not. He is treated daily with pig oil.

 

[saddlesore]

I’d join the CPL page on facebook. Split ergots seem to go hand in hand

 

[splash30]

Same as saddlesore it's a sign of CPL the early stages

 

[Sanversera]

My cob has these.no cpl.he has little feather.

 

[AdorableAlice]

You will also find the chestnuts grow quickly. Your farrier can tidy up for you if you are not confident doing it yourself.