Laminitis in horses

Laminitis is a painful and serious condition that affects the hooves of horses and ponies. It involves the inflammation and disruption of the laminae, which are sensitive structures that attach the hoof wall to the underlying structures of the foot, including the coffin bone (also known as the third phalanx or P3).

Laminitis can have various causes, including:

1. **Diet:** Overeating, especially consuming excessive amounts of grain or lush, rich pasture, can lead to laminitis due to the disruption of the horse’s digestive system and the release of harmful compounds in the gut.

2. **Obesity:** Overweight or obese horses are at a higher risk of developing laminitis because the excess weight places more stress on the feet.

3. **Endocrine Disorders:** Conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s disease (pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, or PPID) can predispose horses to laminitis. These disorders often lead to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, which can contribute to laminitis.

4. **Trauma:** Trauma to one or more hooves, such as from excessive exercise on hard surfaces or from a mechanical injury, can trigger laminitis.

5. **Systemic Illness:** Horses with severe illnesses, such as colitis or severe infections, can experience laminitis as a secondary effect.

6. **Grain Overload:** Rapid consumption of high-starch feed, such as grains, can result in the fermentation of carbohydrates in the hindgut, leading to the release of toxins that can trigger laminitis.

The initial signs of laminitis include:

– **Lameness:** The horse may be reluctant to move and will often stand with their weight shifted onto their hind legs or may lean back to take pressure off the front feet.

– **Increased Digital Pulse:** The digital pulse, which can be felt at the back of the fetlock, might become stronger and more noticeable.

– **Heat in Hooves:** The hooves may feel warm to the touch due to the inflammation.

– **Reluctance to Walk:** Horses with laminitis often show hesitation or reluctance to walk, especially on hard surfaces.

– **Shifting Weight:** The horse may shift its weight from foot to foot, trying to find a more comfortable position.

– **Abnormal Stance:** The horse might adopt a stance that relieves pressure from the painful front feet by rocking back on their heels.

– **Increased Heart Rate:** In severe cases, the horse’s heart rate might be elevated due to pain and stress.

If you suspect your horse has laminitis, it’s crucial to contact a vet immediately. Early intervention can significantly improve the horse’s prognosis. Treatment might involve pain management, anti-inflammatory medications, corrective trimming and shoeing, and addressing the underlying cause of laminitis. In severe cases, hospitalisation might be necessary.

Prevention is key to managing laminitis. This includes maintaining a proper diet, monitoring body condition and weight, providing regular exercise, and managing any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to laminitis development.