Corkscrew Claws

Corkscrew claws involve primarily the lateral claws of the hind feet. The hoof wall elongates and rolls under the solar surface so that the entire claw is rotated around it's long axis. The condition is thought to be inherited, and usually does not appear before 3 years of age. If abnormal growth has not occurred by 5 years of age it is unlikely to occur. The distal phalanx is abnormally aligned with respect to the proximal interphalangeal joint. The coffin bone elongates and exostosis can develop on the abaxial side of the DIP joint, or the DIP joint may be ankylosed. Trimming is necessary but does not completely correct the problem.

Scissor Claws

In Scissor Claws, there is excessive hoof growth with long, overlapping toes; there is no rotation of the claws. Both claws may be affected and it is the sequela of chronic laminitis.

Overgrown Hooves

Overgrown hooves, or slipper claws, are due to a lack of wear resulting in excessive growth and upward curling of the toes of the rear lateral claws primarily. All of the claws can be affected but extreme abnormalities are most common in the hindfeet. There is no overlapping of the toes or rotation of the long axis. Extreme cases grow as much as 5 cm / month. Normal horn growth averages 0.5 cm / month.