Which pair is described as the two fibro-fatty cushions of the hoof?

• A. Plantar cushion and dorsal cushion
• B. Digital cushion and coronary cushion
• C. Digital cushion and lateral cushion
• D. Coronary cushion and plantar cushion

Answer: (B)

Two fibro-fatty cushions in the hoof are the digital cushion and the coronary cushion. The digital cushion sits on the palmar/solar aspect of the hoof behind the coffin bone and acts as the primary shock absorber, helping to cushion impact as the horse bears weight and aiding circulation by pumping blood with each step. The coronary cushion lies just beneath the coronary band along the inside of the hoof wall, providing a second pad that cushions the structures at the top of the hoof and helps distribute load. Together, they form the pair described as the hoof’s fibro-fatty cushions, giving both cushioning and support to the internal structures. Some texts refer to the plantar cushion as the digital cushion, but the two cushions described here—digital and coronary—are the standard pairing for these pads.