Understanding Laminitis: Essential Guide for Horse Owners

Laminitis is one of the most common causes of lameness in horses, yet it is often misunderstood, putting many horses and ponies at risk. This painful condition arises when the blood supply to the sensitive laminae within the hoof is compromised, causing tissue damage between the pedal bone and the hoof wall. Unable to expand with inflammation, the hoof experiences intense pain, leading to weakening and potential rotation or sinking of the pedal bone, a severe state called 'founder'. In extreme cases, the pedal bone may even penetrate the sole.

Causes of Laminitis

Laminitis is frequently associated with obese ponies grazing lush grass, but this is a limited view. Horses of all breeds and sizes can suffer from laminitis due to various triggers affecting the laminae blood flow.

Dietary Causes

Rapid fermentation of carbohydrates in the hind gut leads to acid build-up, triggering laminitis. Excessive cereals in the diet can be as harmful as rich grass. High fructan levels in grass stems, especially in stressed pastures after warm days followed by cool nights, increase risk. For example, spring mornings with frosty paddocks or grass recently cut for hay pose a hazard to susceptible horses. Avoid grazing at these times to reduce risk.

Medical and Environmental Triggers

Large doses of corticosteroids — sometimes used to treat conditions like arthritis — can cause laminitis. Stressful events such as long-distance travel can also trigger natural corticosteroid release, increasing risk. Older horses with Cushing's disease (pituitary gland disorder) are particularly vulnerable. Repeated concussion from hard surfaces or compensatory weight-bearing due to an injury may also lead to laminitis. Additionally, infections, retained afterbirth, and colic episodes are recognised triggers.

Recognising Early Signs

Early detection within the first 24 hours is crucial to prevent permanent damage. Initial signs include a short, shuffling gait that worsens with exercise and is more pronounced on hard ground. Typically affecting the fore feet in pairs but sometimes hind feet, the horse may show acute lameness, reluctance to move, and a distinctive stance with hind feet placed underneath and forefeet stretched forward to relieve toe pressure.

Additional indicators include shifting weight between feet, hot hooves—especially around the coronary band—pain on palpation, and a pounding digital pulse felt on the pastern. A laminitic horse may also have an increased heart rate, darkened mucous membranes, and shortened breath.

Effective Treatment

If you suspect laminitis, contact an emergency vet immediately. Temporary support can be given by taping rolled bandages onto each forefoot frog. Move the horse carefully to a deep-bedded, spacious stable and supervise closely.

Modern approaches discourage starvation, forced exercise, or shoe removal during episodes. Instead, controlled diet management with veterinary guidance is imperative. Vets will administer medication, perform hoof radiographs to assess pedal bone position, and fit specialised supports to reduce strain. Nursing requires dedication, and although some cases lead to retirement or euthanasia, early intervention can restore the horse to full health. Horses remain susceptible to future attacks, so ongoing management is essential.

Preventing Laminitis

Preventative measures are less demanding than treating active laminitis and should be a priority for all horse owners. Avoid feeding large quantities of high-energy cereals, especially to native ponies with sensitive metabolisms. Prevent access to lush grass, particularly during rapid growth in spring and autumn. Introduce dietary changes gradually and ensure adequate fibre intake.

Monitor grass growth rates and weather conditions carefully, using grazing restrictions such as strip grazing, grazing muzzles, or stabling when risks are high. Be mindful that short, stressed pasture grass can be as hazardous as lush grass. Control your horse's weight through regular girth measurements and maintain good paddock hygiene to reduce parasite load. Implement an effective worming programme and monitor horses with digestive issues or Cushing's disease closely, as their laminitis risk is increased.

For responsible horse ownership and welfare, understanding laminitis, recognising its early symptoms, adhering to veterinary advice, and implementing prevention strategies will help protect your horse’s health and quality of life.

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