Hoof boots provide horses with the support they need for everyday use, therapy, trailering and more. When purchasing hoof boots at Valley Vet Supply, each product page will have a horse boot size chart, which you can specifically look to, in order to make the best sizing decision for your horse. Learn all about measuring for hoof boots in the article and video below, and implement the following four tips to help ensure proper hoof measurement for your horse's Easyboots and Easycare hoof boots.

Horse Hoof Boot Size Chart

1. After a fresh trim, measure the width of the hoof across the bottom at the widest point.
2. Measure the length of the hoof from the toe to the buttress line of the heel. The buttress line is the farthest weight-bearing point of the heel where the hoof wall ends. Do not include the heel bulbs in the measurement.
3. Compare your measurement with the appropriate size chart. Each boot style has its own unique size chart.
4. Ideally, the length and width measurement will fit into the same size. If the length and width measurements indicate different sizes, select the larger size. If the width and length measurements are different by more than one size, your selected boot style is not recommended.* Be sure to check your measurements against an alternative boot in the EasyCare line, as another style may better accommodate your horse’s hoof shape.

*Note: If you are fitting an Easyboot Glue-On or Easyboot Glove, width and length must fall into the same size category.

Look to our selection of hoof boots to provide your horse constant hoof protection, while still enjoying the benefits of a barefoot horse. Measuring for hoof boots doesn't have to be hard. Check out this EasyCare blog for a fitting assistant! There, you can use your smartphone or a digital point-and-shoot camera to take crisp images of your horse's hoof, and answer a few brief questions, for assistance with hoof boot fitting and sizing. An Easy Care representative will be in contact with you within just one business day to help you determine sizing, and then you can place your order at Valley Vet Supply for Secretariat-fast shipping.

Read more: How to Measure for Hoof Boots

By the EIE Editorial Staff

Barn cats can be amazing allies for horse owners, providing both direct and indirect benefits and a great greeter when you visit your horse at the barn! The barn environment may also be a place where cats who are otherwise unadoptable can live a happy and fulfilling life. Here are some of the benefits of having a barn cat.

Pest Control

• Natural hunters: Their primary benefit is keeping rodent populations in check. Mice and rats can damage feed, spread disease, and even gnaw on horses' tails and manes. By taking care of these pests, barn cats help protect your horses' health and well-being.
• Deterrence: Even their presence can deter rodents. Their keen senses and reputation as predators scare away unwanted critters, reducing the need for other pest control methods.

 

Cost-Effective

 

• Sustainable solution: Compared to traps, poisons, or professional pest control services, barn cats are a more natural and cost-effective solution over time.
• Low-maintenance: While you'll need to provide food, water, and shelter, they generally take care of themselves, requiring minimal intervention. A great idea is affordable pet insurance.

 

Other Benefits

• Companionship: Horses are social animals, and some may appreciate the company of a friendly barn cat. While cats might not cuddle up like dogs, their presence can offer comfort and reduce stress.
• Morale Booster: Watching a cat stalk and play can be entertaining for both you and your horses, adding a touch of fun and whimsy to the barn environment.
• Ecosystem balance: Keeping rodent populations in check helps maintain a healthy ecosystem around the barn, benefiting other animals and plants as well.

 

Specifically for Horses

• Reduced stress: Some horses seem to be less anxious with cats around, which can be helpful for nervous or easily spooked horses.
• Pest control around feed: Rodents can contaminate feed with droppings and attract other pests. Barn cats help keep feed areas clean and safe. Reduced risk of disease: Rodents can carry diseases harmful to horses, and keeping their populations low minimizes the risk of transmission.

 

However, it's important to remember

• Not all cats are suitable: Choosing barn cats with the right temperament and hunting skills is crucial. Consider adopting feral cats with strong hunting instincts. Many rescue organizations call them “working cats” and may be available through your local animal shelter.
• Proper care is essential: Provide them with food, water, shelter, and regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, spay/neuter and parasite control. As these are generally outdoor cats, it is vital that these cats have regularly scheduled veterinary appointments as they are exposed to much more than indoor cats.
• Safety first: Ensure cats and horses can interact safely. Introduce them gradually and provide enough space and escape routes for both.

 

Overall, barn cats can be valuable additions to a horse farm, offering natural pest control, companionship, and contributing to a healthy environment. But remember, proper care and responsible management are essential for everyone's well-being.

Read more about cats in the special edition of National Geographic’s Secret Life of Cats.

You can find more interesting stories in our section on Health & Education.