Laminitis
Written by Edith |
Laminitis is an inflammation that occurs in the hooves, specifically between the pedal bone and the hoof wall. The condition is also known as “laminitis,” which literally means inflammation of the lamellae. These lamellae connect the pedal bone to the hoof wall. When inflammation occurs, these structures can detach, causing the pedal bone to rotate or even break through the sole in severe cases. This is an irreversible process.
The condition is accompanied by severe pain. The horse may appear lame, especially in the front legs, and may sometimes refuse to walk altogether. A typical stance is often observed: the horse places its hind legs far underneath its body and stretches its front legs forward to shift weight backwards. Laminitis can develop acutely and worsen rapidly. Without prompt treatment, the condition can become chronic.
What causes laminitis?
There are several factors that can trigger laminitis:
- Hormonal imbalances: Conditions such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and PPID (Cushing’s disease) can lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of laminitis. This is especially common in Shetland ponies.
- Illness elsewhere in the body: Infections (such as those caused by diarrhoea or retained placenta) can release toxins into the bloodstream. These toxins disrupt the blood flow to the hoof.
- Overloading of one hoof: When a single hoof is overloaded—such as when the opposite leg is recovering—this can also lead to laminitis.
- Diet and fructan in grass: Grass can contain high levels of fructan, especially in spring after cold nights and sunny days. This increases the risk, particularly in horses that are already sensitive (such as those with EMS or PPID).
Diagnosis and treatment
If your horse is lame or you suspect laminitis, contact your veterinarian immediately. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, a physical examination, and the horse’s characteristic stance. If EMS or PPID is suspected, blood tests may be performed. PPID can be treated with medication, while EMS primarily requires adjustments to diet and pasture management.
If the cause lies elsewhere in the body, that underlying issue must be treated. In cases of overloading one hoof, it is important to support the recovery of the opposite leg. In chronic laminitis, an X-ray can help assess the rotation of the pedal bone. Specialised shoeing may provide relief. Discuss this with your veterinarian and farrier.
What can you do yourself?
Give your horse rest. Avoid any movement such as walking, lunging, or riding. Provide a soft, comfortable place to lie down. Cooling the hooves (for example, with cold water or wet bandages) can offer relief.
There are also supportive products available, such as NAF Laminaze and Puur Podo.
Prevention
If your horse is prone to laminitis, or if EMS or PPID has previously been diagnosed, adjust your pasture management accordingly. Limit grazing in spring, when fructan levels in grass are high. You may consider fencing off part of the pasture or using a paddock. Some ponies are better off avoiding grass altogether during this period.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us at [email protected].
