Ergots. What are they?

The ergot is a small, callus - like growth found on the underside of a horse’s fetlock.

All horses have an ergot on all four limbs, while certain breeds tend to exhibit more noticeable ergots. While others may have minimal growth, they are often more visible on horses with feathers and can be trimmed if needed, mainly for cosmetic purposes, but they can grow rather long and become sensitive.

Interestingly, the term ‘ergot’ originates from the old French word for a rooster’s spur, ‘argot’.