Zona alba
The white line is the visible junction on the ground surface of the foot where the insensitive laminae of the hoof wall meet the sole. It appears as a lighter-colored zone and serves as an important landmark for farriers during trimming and shoeing. The white line marks the boundary between wall and sole horn and is a common entry point for bacteria that can lead to abscesses. A strong, tight white line indicates good lamellar attachment and overall hoof health. Stretching or separation of the white line is a hallmark of white line disease and can also occur secondary to laminitis or conformational abnormalities.
White line disease and white line abscesses are common causes of lameness. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and hoof testers. Management includes appropriate debridement, protection, and treatment of underlying causes. Relevant in evaluations of hoof health and after poor farriery.
Sudden lameness with heat in the foot or positive response to hoof testers should be evaluated. Protect the white line from excessive moisture and trauma. Regular farriery helps maintain a healthy white line.
White line disease and white line abscesses are common causes of lameness. Diagnosis uses clinical examination and hoof testers. Management includes appropriate debridement, protection, and treatment of underlying causes. Relevant in evaluations of hoof health and after poor farriery.
Sudden lameness with heat in the foot or positive response to hoof testers should be evaluated. Protect the white line from excessive moisture and trauma. Regular farriery helps maintain a healthy white line.
See the White Line on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model