The Cytek System considers horse anatomy, the hoof shape of the feral horse and the causes of hoof-related problems in domestic horses. For the unshod domestic horse, a Cytek trim is recommended as this most closely mirrors the healthy hoof of the feral horse. For those horses that are shod, the Cytek shoe is designed to properly support the foot while maintaining the correct point of breakover and natural length of the toe. This allows the hoof to function as close to its feral counterpart as possible while enjoying the protection provided by a shoe.
One of the distinguishing features of a Cytek shoe is the bevelled front. The Cytek shoe has no toe or quarter clips so that it can be set back under the hoof, relieving the pressure from the toe area. When the shoe is properly placed it maintains the point of breakover at the tip of the coffin bone (P3) and helps the horse to naturally keep its toe trimmed to the ideal length.
The Cytek shoe is noticeably broader than a rim shoe because it is designed to support and protect the coffin bone (P3). The wide, slightly concave surface area also allows fine soil to pack between the sole and the shoe. This mimics the condition of an unshod hoof and promotes healthy sole growth.
Understanding that horses of the same size have essentially the same foot structure, the Cytek shoe is designed for cold shoeing. Cytek shoes are available in 15 appropriate sizes so there is no need for the equipment, time and commotion associated with shaping hot metal. The Cytek shoe allows for correct hoof growth thus reducing many hoof pathologies.