Which of the following plays a significant role in maintaining hoof health?

Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining hoof health because it directly impacts the growth and integrity of the hoof structures. A horse's hooves consist largely of keratin, which is a protein. Adequate protein intake, along with vitamins and minerals such as biotin, zinc, and calcium, supports healthy hoof growth and strength.

With a well-balanced diet, a horse is more likely to develop strong, resilient hooves that can withstand various conditions and stresses. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can lead to weak or brittle hooves, which can be prone to cracking, splitting, or other issues like laminitis.

Other considerations, such as regular exercise and environmental conditions, also play roles in hoof health but are not as fundamental as the nutritional aspect. Regular exercise helps promote circulation and can support healthy hoof growth, while wet conditions and poor hoof hygiene can lead to infections and other problems but do not contribute positively to hoof health. Therefore, proper nutrition remains the cornerstone in ensuring that the hooves remain healthy and functional over time.