The hoof mechanism

In action, the hoof base hits the surface with a force of approx. 1500 kgs. This force is absorbed, first by the frog and then by the digital cushion. The digital cushion is put under pressure by the coffin bone, short pastern bone and navicular bone being pressed downwards and backwards together with the deep digital flexor tendon. At the same time, the digital cushion is exposed to counter pressure from the frog below, which is pressed against the surface.

The digital cushion is now pressed against the sides, pushing the hoof cartilage outwards. The hoof cartilage then pushes the rear hoof walls outwards, causing the hoof to expand approx. 5-10 mm on each side of the heel area. This dynamic movement helps to reduce the force of the impact and spread it over a larger area. This is good for the tendons and joints as well as the whole horse, since it is estimated that about 70 % of a horse’s shock absorptions occur in the hoof.

Once you understand how a horse’s hoof mechanism works, it is easy to see why a horse shod
in conventional shoes receives very little shock absorption. CABATO contributes to a natural
hoof mechanism with reduced veterinary costs and improved quality of life for the horse.