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Hoof - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 14:02, 4 August 2008
, 14:02, 4 August 2008→Structure
The keratin in the epidermis, when thickened and cornified, is referred to as '''horn'''. Horn is particularly resistant to mechanical and chemical damage. The outer surface of the hoof is composed of horn.
The keratin in the epidermis, when thickened and cornified, is referred to as '''horn'''. Horn is particularly resistant to mechanical and chemical damage. The outer surface of the hoof is composed of horn.
==Structure==
==Structure and Function==
The epidermis of the horny hoof is termed the '''coronary epidermis'''. Its surface has a plantar aspect and newly formed hoof grows distally towards the plantar surface of the structure. Hoof wall is generally 5 - 10 mm in thickness and consists of 3 layers:
The epidermis of the horny hoof is termed the '''coronary epidermis'''. Its surface has a plantar aspect and newly formed hoof grows distally towards the plantar surface of the structure. Hoof wall is generally 5 - 10 mm in thickness and consists of 3 layers: