Which topical combination is used for anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect in complete wall cracks?

• A. Prednisolone, penicillin
• B. Dexamethasone, oxytetracycline
• C. Hydrocortisone, erythromycin
• D. Ibuprofen, amoxicillin

Answer: (B)

Combining a potent topical anti-inflammatory with a broad-spectrum antibiotic is the effective approach for inflamed and infected hoof cracks, since you address both pain and bacterial load in one treatment. Dexamethasone provides strong, lasting anti-inflammatory effects, reducing swelling, pain, and inflammatory mediators in the damaged tissue. Oxytetracycline offers broad antibacterial activity against many pathogens that commonly colonize cracked hoof walls, helping prevent and treat infection when applied topically. Together, they tackle the two main problems seen in complete wall cracks: inflammation and bacterial infection, making this pairing the most suitable choice.

Other options are less ideal because they either use a weaker or less appropriate anti-inflammatory or rely on antibiotics with narrower spectra or less favorable topical performance for hoof infections.