Laminitis
What is Laminitis?
Laminitis is a serious and often painful condition affecting the hooves of horses. It occurs when the sensitive laminae, the tissues that connect the hoof wall to the underlying bone (the coffin bone), become inflamed.
This inflammation can lead to severe pain, lameness, and even more serious complications such as founder, where the coffin bone sinks or rotates due to loss of support.
There are several factors that can lead to laminitis, including dietary changes, obesity, and certain medical conditions. One of the most common triggers is the consumption of large amounts of lush grass or high-starch feeds, which can disrupt the digestive system and lead to an overproduction of sugars and acids. This, in turn, can cause an increase in insulin and an inflammatory response that damages the laminae.
Other factors that can contribute to laminitis include metabolic diseases like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s disease (PPID). Horses that are overweight or have a high body condition score are at a greater risk, as excess weight puts additional strain on their hooves. Additionally, laminitis can also result from mechanical factors, such as prolonged standing on hard surfaces or excessive exercise on hard ground, as well as injuries to other limbs that cause a horse to bear weight unevenly.
How can you spot it?
Signs of laminitis can vary but typically include reluctance to move, shifting weight from one foot to another, a characteristic "founder stance" (where the horse may stand with its front feet stretched forward), and heat emanating from the hooves.
If you notice these signs, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Early intervention can prevent further deterioration and improve the chances of a favorable outcome.
How to treat Laminitis, acute and chronic?
Treatment of laminitis focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing the underlying causes.
This often includes anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, and careful management of the horse’s weight.
In more severe cases, a veterinarian may recommend specialised hoof care, such as therapeutic shoeing or padding, to provide additional support and reduce pain.
Prevention Top Tips
Preventing laminitis requires a proactive approach.
Owners should monitor their horse's diet, maintain a healthy body weight, and practice good hoof care.
Regular veterinary checkups can help in early detection of potential risk factors, allowing for timely interventions to keep horses healthy and sound.
By understanding laminitis and its causes, horse owners can take steps to protect their beloved animals from this painful condition.
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