Use of metal astringents for the treatment of hairy heel warts

A system and method for treating hoof related diseases, particularly hairy heel warts (papillomatus digital dermatitis), includes an aqueous solution having a metal astringent at a therapeutically effective concentration. The metal astringent includes aluminum, iron, and mixtures thereof. In preferred embodiments, the metal may include a mixture of monomeric and polymeric species. The polymeric species may be in the form of a polymeric concentrate, such as, for example, polyaluminum chloride or polyferric sulfate. Alternatively, the polymeric species may be formed by partially neutralizing a metal salt. The aqueous solution of the metal astringent is applied to a lower leg and hoof area of an animal using any known application technique, including, but not limited to, foot baths, foams and spray applications. In preferred embodiments, the aqueous solution is applied using an automated dispensing system. The aqueous solution may include additional components, such as surfactants and thickeners, to enhance the performance of the metal astringent or contribute additional functionality.