By: Dr Rosie Alcorn BVSc PG Cert VPS Cert AVP MRCVS
With the recent spell of good weather, grass growth has surged following the winter months. Unfortunately, this has coincided with an increase in laminitis cases. This article provides practical tips on how to manage and prevent laminitis in horses and ponies that are prone to this painful condition.
Laminitis is a serious and extremely painful condition caused by inflammation of the laminae the soft tissue structures within the hoof that attach the hoof wall to the pedal bone. These tissues act like Velcro, holding the hoof capsule in place.
When inflamed, the bond weakens, which can allow the pedal bone to rotate or shift, resulting in significant discomfort and lasting damage. Laminitis is associated with more than 7% of equine deaths, making awareness and prevention vital for horse owners.
There are three main categories of laminitis triggers:
1. Endocrine Disorders
Around 90% of laminitis cases are linked to an underlying endocrine (hormonal) condition. Insulin dysregulation plays a key role, though research is ongoing to fully understand its effects.
The most common endocrine disorders linked to laminitis are:
EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome)
PPID (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction), also known as Cushing’s disease
2. Inflammatory Disease
In certain inflammatory conditions, the exact trigger for laminitis is unclear. However, it is believed that widespread inflammation in the body can also affect the laminae. This is commonly seen in broodmares with retained placentas.
3. Mechanical Overload or Supporting Limb Laminitis
This form of laminitis occurs when a horse bears excessive weight on one limb due to injury, fracture, or infection in the opposite limb. Prolonged weight-bearing may reduce blood flow to the hoof and damage the lamellar tissue.
Early detection is crucial. Watch for these common signs of laminitis:
Reluctance to walk or move
Shortened stride
Weight shifting between limbs
Increased digital pulse
Leaning or rocking back onto the hindlimbs
Increased lying down
Rings on the hoof wall
In donkeys: a distinctive high-stepping “goose step”
In heavy horses: signs may first appear in the hindlimbs, sometimes mistaken for other issues
If you suspect your horse has laminitis, contact your vet immediately. It is a serious medical condition requiring urgent treatment and long-term management.
Ongoing Laminitis Management: Key Strategies
Managing a laminitis-prone horse focuses on reducing stress on the hooves and managing insulin levels. Here are several essential strategies:
1. Limit Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSCs) in the Diet
Spring grass is high in NSCs, which can spike insulin levels. To manage this:
Restrict grazing, especially during peak growth periods.
Use grazing muzzles to reduce grass intake.
Create small, restricted paddocks for high-risk horses.
Understand that short turnout periods can still be harmful, as ponies can consume a full day's worth of grass in less than four hours. Turnout for short periods of time often doesn't work if the field is rich in grass as they will just gorge themselves.
When stabled, offer soaked hay to reduce sugar content. While some horses may initially reject it due to the sugar being removed, most will accept it when hungry!
Think of it like a child used to sweets being offered a piece of fruit, initial resistance is common, but they'll usually come around!
2. Monitor Body Condition Score (BCS) Regularly
Maintaining a healthy BCS is vital for horses prone to endocrine-related laminitis. Use a weight tape and regularly assess your horse’s body condition.
3. Provide Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Supplementing your horse’s diet with vitamins and minerals can promote strong, healthy hoof growth and improve overall hoof resilience.
4. Avoid Grains and Concentrates
Feeds high in sugar and starch can contribute to insulin spikes. Stick to a low-NSC, forage-based diet where possible.
Keyflow's Pink Mash contains less than 2% sugar and starch, making it a safe option for horses at risk of laminitis at this time of year.
Laminitis prevention is all about awareness and proactive management, especially in the spring when lush grass can pose hidden risks. With the right diet, monitoring, and veterinary support, you can help reduce the risk of laminitis and keep your horse happy and healthy all year round.
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