Quarter Cracks in Horses: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Quarter cracks are a common hoof problem horse owners and farriers face—and if left untreated, they can lead to lameness, infection, or long-term structural damage. Whether you're seeing a visible split or noticing signs of discomfort, understanding the causes and solutions is essential.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about quarter cracks in horses, including how they develop, what treatment options exist, and how to prevent them through good hoof care and farriery practices.

If you're currently dealing with a quarter crack, or just want to stay ahead of hoof health issues, this post will help you make informed decisions for your horse’s long-term soundness.

What Is a Quarter Crack in Horses?

A quarter crack is a vertical split that forms in the hoof wall, typically starting at the coronary band and extending downward. It usually appears in the quarters of the hoof—the area between the toe and the heel. These cracks can be superficial, but in many cases, they deepen over time, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes bleeding or infection.

Equine quarter cracks can affect any horse, but they are especially common in performance horses or those with imbalances in hoof structure, improper trimming, or underlying conformation faults.

Depending on the severity, a quarter crack in a horse can:

• Cause visible lameness

• Worsen with exercise or hard footing

• Open a pathway for bacterial infection

• Affect the integrity of the hoof wall, especially if left untreated

If you're unsure whether your horse’s hoof issue is a simple surface crack or something more serious, keep reading. We’ll cover how to assess, treat, and prevent these cracks in the next sections.

What Causes Quarter Cracks in Horses?

Quarter cracks don’t appear overnight. They’re often the result of multiple underlying factors—some environmental, some anatomical, and many preventable. Knowing the causes behind quarter cracks in horses’ hooves can help you reduce the risk and intervene early before the damage worsens.

1. Hoof imbalance or poor conformation

Uneven weight distribution is one of the leading causes of equine quarter cracks. Horses with long toes, underrun heels, or mediolateral imbalances are more likely to develop stress points on specific areas of the hoof wall. These weak spots, especially at the quarters, eventually give way to cracking—especially under heavy work or uneven terrain.

Curious about your horse’s natural hoof angles and body type? Our conformation flashcard helps identify structural issues that may contribute to hoof imbalances.

2. Improper or infrequent trimming

If a horse isn’t trimmed regularly—or is trimmed incorrectly—it can cause torque and pressure in the wrong areas of the hoof. This repeated strain on an already stressed quarter can eventually lead to vertical cracks. Farriers often spot the early warning signs during routine visits, which is why regular professional care is so important.

3. Injury or trauma to the coronary band

Since quarter cracks typically originate at the coronary band, even minor trauma—like a kick, fence injury, or abscess blowout—can create a weak point where cracks begin. Once a crack forms at the origin of hoof growth, it usually continues downward as the hoof wall grows out. In some cases, cracks may follow the rupture of an abscess at the coronary band. Learn more about hoof abscesses and how to identify them.

4. Dry, brittle hooves or poor hoof quality

Environmental conditions play a role too. Horses living in extremely dry, hard, or shifting wet-dry environments may develop brittle hoof walls that are prone to splitting. Poor nutrition, chronic inflammation, or genetic hoof defects can also lead to weaker horn structures that are more susceptible to cracking.

5. Overwork or high-impact activity

Performance horses—especially those involved in jumping, racing, or frequent trail work—can develop quarter cracks due to repeated concussion on the hoof. This type of repetitive stress, especially if combined with unbalanced feet or poor shoeing, creates the perfect conditions for cracks to form.

For a more in-depth look at the types of hoof cracks and their classifications, The Horse provides a detailed guide.

How to Treat Quarter Cracks in Horses

When it comes to treating quarter cracks in horses, timing and technique are everything. The sooner you intervene, the better the outcome. Successful treatment involves not only managing the crack itself but also correcting the root cause to prevent recurrence.

Stabilize the Hoof Structure

The first goal is to reduce movement around the crack. Movement leads to further tearing and delays healing.

• Corrective trimming helps rebalance the hoof and remove leverage from the cracked area.

  
  

• Therapeutic shoeing often involves bar shoes, clips, or z-bar shoes to offload pressure. To learn about the types of therapeutic shoes utilized in the treatment of quarter cracks, start by reading Bar Shoes: Common Designs and Uses

  
  

• Crack stabilization may include lacing the hoof wall or applying hoof repair materials like epoxy, acrylic patches, or "stitches".

  

These methods protect the crack and promote healthy, uninterrupted hoof growth.

Treat Underlying Infection or Inflammation

If there's any discharge, swelling, heat, or lameness, the crack might be infected.

• A veterinarian may debride the crack to clean it and prevent bacteria from spreading deeper into the hoof.

• Antibiotics (topical or systemic) may be prescribed if infection is present.

• Anti-inflammatories or pain relievers can help reduce discomfort and speed up recovery.

Never ignore signs of infection—untreated cracks can lead to serious complications like abscesses or deep hoof wall separation.

Restrict Activity as Needed

Depending on the severity, the horse may need modified activity or full rest.

• Mild cracks may allow for light turnout or low-impact work with proper shoeing.

• Severe or painful cracks typically require stall rest until the hoof stabilizes and pain subsides.

Your vet or farrier will help determine the safest activity level for your horse during recovery.

Monitor Hoof Growth and Recovery

Quarter cracks heal as the hoof grows down and replaces the damaged wall.

• Most hoof walls grow at a rate of 6–10 mm per month, meaning full healing can take several months.

• Routine farrier visits are essential during this time to trim correctly, rebalance the hoof, and adjust shoeing as needed.

• A crack is fully healed once it's grown out and the wall is strong and uniform, without separation or movement.

For an expert guide on corrective trimming techniques and how quarter cracks respond to different farriery approaches, check out Kentucky Equine Research’s detailed article on caring for quarter cracks in horses.

How to Prevent Quarter Cracks in Horses

Prevention is always better than treatment—especially with something as avoidable as quarter cracks. While not every crack can be predicted, consistent care and attention to detail go a long way in keeping your horse’s hooves healthy and strong.

Maintain a Regular Farrier Schedule

The most important step in prevention is consistent, high-quality hoof care.

• Schedule trims every 4–6 weeks, depending on your horse’s needs and growth rate.

• Work with a farrier experienced in corrective trimming and balancing hooves, especially if your horse has conformation issues.

• Avoid letting the hoof grow too long, as excess length increases leverage and pressure on the quarters.

Routine care keeps hoof structures aligned and reduces stress that leads to cracking.

Address Hoof Imbalances Early

Many cracks are the result of uneven loading, which often stems from subtle asymmetries.

• Watch for signs like uneven wear, flaring, or toe dragging.

• Ask your farrier or vet about radiographs if you're unsure about internal alignment or balance.

• Use corrective shoeing when needed to restore balance and distribute weight properly.

Proactive intervention can stop cracks before they start.

Optimize Environment and Turnout Conditions

Extreme moisture changes can wreak havoc on hoof quality.

• Keep stalls clean and dry to reduce exposure to urine and wet bedding.

• Use hoof hardeners or sealants during damp months to prevent softening.

• In arid climates, regular hoof moisturizing may be necessary to avoid brittleness and cracking.

A consistent, stable environment supports healthy horn development.

Support Hoof Health with Proper Nutrition

Good hoof quality starts from within. Deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to brittle, weak hooves.

• Ensure your horse’s diet includes adequate biotin, methionine, zinc, and copper.

• Consider adding a hoof supplement if your horse has a history of poor hoof growth or cracking.

• Always consult with an equine nutritionist or vet before adding new supplements.

Healthy hooves are far less likely to crack under pressure. For a breakdown of essential nutrients and feeding practices, explore this beginner’s guide to equine nutrition.

Monitor High-Performance Horses Closely

Performance horses are under more stress and should be monitored for early signs of hoof fatigue or imbalance.

• Incorporate regular vet and farrier check-ins, especially during heavy work seasons.

• Rotate training surfaces to avoid repetitive concussion.

• Stay ahead of problems—don’t wait for cracks to appear before taking action.

Read More on Hoof Care and Farriery

If you're looking to dive deeper into hoof health, shoeing techniques, and the long-term care of equine feet, these classic texts and guides offer timeless knowledge for horse owners, farriers, and vet students alike:

• Cases in Farriery: Explore real-life case studies where hoof diseases and lameness are treated using veterinary science principles.

• The Horse: Its Keep and Management: A comprehensive manual on feeding, stabling, and managing horses—perfect for owners who want a holistic approach.

• A Handbook of Horse Shoeing: Get foundational knowledge on hoof anatomy, shoeing methods, and how farriers work with equine physiology.

These resources offer additional context and in-depth understanding to complement what you’ve learned about quarter cracks in this guide.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead of Quarter Cracks

Quarter cracks in horses can go from minor to serious fast—but with the right care, they’re often preventable and treatable. Understanding the causes, spotting the early warning signs, and working with a skilled farrier and vet team are your best defenses.

If your horse already has a quarter crack, don’t wait it out. Take action to stabilize the hoof, treat any infection, and rebalance the foot. Subtle signs of discomfort or lameness could signal bigger issues. Here’s how to spot early signs of sickness in your horse.

And if you’re just looking to stay proactive, focus on consistent trimming, good nutrition, and regular monitoring—especially for high-performance horses. Subtle signs of discomfort or lameness could signal bigger issues. Healthy hooves aren’t just about appearance. They’re the foundation of your horse’s comfort, performance, and long-term soundness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quarter Cracks in Horses

1. Can a horse with a quarter crack still be ridden?

It depends on the severity and whether the crack is stable. If the crack is superficial and not causing pain, some horses can continue light work under a vet or farrier’s guidance. However, if there’s lameness, heat, or signs of infection, riding should be paused to allow for healing. Continuing to ride a compromised hoof can worsen the crack and lead to long-term damage.

2. How long does it take for a quarter crack to heal completely?

On average, a hoof wall takes 9 to 12 months to grow out fully, but mild cracks may stabilize in a few months with proper care. Healing time depends on the horse’s age, diet, hoof growth rate, and how well the crack is managed. Horses with fast-growing hooves, good nutrition, and consistent trimming tend to recover quicker.

3. Are certain horse breeds more prone to quarter cracks?

Yes. Thoroughbreds, Warmbloods, and Standardbreds—especially those involved in racing or jumping—are often more susceptible due to the intense stress placed on their hooves. Horses with thin hoof walls, long pasterns, or genetic hoof conformation issues are also more at risk, regardless of breed.

4. Do hoof supplements really help prevent cracks?

They can—if used correctly and consistently. Supplements rich in biotin, zinc, methionine, and amino acids support healthy keratin production, which strengthens the hoof wall. However, they’re not a quick fix. It can take 3 to 6 months to see results, and they work best alongside proper trimming, shoeing, and environmental management.

5. Should quarter cracks always be patched or repaired with synthetic materials?

Not always. While patching with acrylic or epoxy materials can help stabilize the hoof, it’s not always necessary or appropriate. In minor cases, rest and trimming may be enough. Patching is more commonly used in performance horses who need to stay in work while healing or in cases where the crack is unstable and at risk of spreading.

6. Can weather changes cause quarter cracks?

Yes, if the integrity of the hoof is already compromised—sudden shifts between wet and dry conditions can further weaken the hoof wall. When hooves go from being soft and moist to dry and brittle, they’re more prone to stress cracks, especially if the horse is working on hard or uneven ground. Using topical hoof conditioners and maintaining a consistent environment can reduce the risk.

Self Assessment Quiz

Multiple Choice Questions (Choose the best answer)

1. What is a quarter crack in a horse's hoof?

a. Horizontal split in the hoof sole

b. Vertical split in the hoof wall, usually starting at the coronary band

c. Minor surface chipping of the hoof wall

d. Infection at the sole of the hoof

2. Where do quarter cracks typically appear on the hoof?

a. At the toe only

b. On the hoof frog

c. Between the toe and heel (quarters)

d. Directly in the center of the sole

3. Which of the following is NOT a common cause of quarter cracks?

a. Hoof imbalance

b. Frequent shoe changes

c. Trauma to the coronary band

d. Overwork and high-impact activities

4. What's the initial step to treating quarter cracks effectively?

a. Increasing activity to toughen the hoof

b. Ignoring it until it heals naturally

c. Stabilizing the crack and reducing movement

d. Immediate removal of shoes permanently

5. Which method is commonly used to stabilize a severe quarter crack?

a. Applying hoof oils only

b. Therapeutic shoeing and possibly hoof-wall patching

c. Feeding additional grain

d. Continuous stall rest without trimming

6. How frequently should a horse’s hooves be trimmed to prevent quarter cracks?

a. Every 2-3 weeks

b. Every 4-6 weeks

c. Every 8-10 weeks

d. Only when cracks appear

7. Which environmental factor commonly contributes to brittle hooves and subsequent quarter cracks?

a. Stable dry conditions

b. Consistent, moderate moisture

c. Extreme shifts between wet and dry conditions

d. Using hoof moisturizers regularly

8. Proper nutritional supplementation to strengthen hooves typically includes:

a. Biotin, zinc, copper, and methionine

b. Vitamin C only

c. Calcium and phosphorus only

d. Protein supplements exclusively

9. Quarter cracks most commonly begin at the:

a. Sole of the hoof

b. Frog

c. Coronary band

d. Heel bulbs

10. Complete healing of a quarter crack typically takes how long?

a. 1-2 months

b. 3-6 months

c. 6-12 months

d. Over 2 years

True or False Questions

1. True or False: Quarter cracks in horses can lead to infection if left untreated.

2. True or False: A horse with a minor quarter crack can typically continue light exercise under veterinary supervision.

3. True or False: Performance horses, such as jumpers or racers, have a higher risk of developing quarter cracks.

4. True or False: Quarter cracks generally appear overnight without prior signs.

5. True or False: Consistent trimming and good nutrition significantly reduce the risk of quarter cracks.

   
   

Short Answer Questions

1. Explain two reasons why regular farrier visits are crucial in preventing quarter cracks.

2. Describe what environmental management practices can reduce the risk of developing quarter cracks.

3. Outline the general steps for treating a severe quarter crack once identified.

   
   

Answer Key

Multiple Choice:

1. b

2. c

3. b

4. c

5. b

6. b

7. c

8. a

9. c

10. c

True or False:

1. True

2. True

3. True

4. False

5. True

Short Answer Examples:

1. Regular farrier visits:

   • Prevent imbalances by maintaining proper hoof alignment.

   • Identify and address minor issues early before cracks develop.

2. Environmental management practices:

   • Maintaining stable moisture levels, avoiding extreme wet-dry cycles.

   • Using topical hoof conditioners or sealants to maintain hoof integrity.

3. Steps for treating severe quarter cracks:

   • Stabilize crack with therapeutic shoeing or patching materials.

   • Manage infection or inflammation with veterinary intervention.

   • Restrict horse’s activity to reduce further damage.

   • Schedule routine farrier visits to monitor and adjust treatment as the hoof grows out.