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Laminitis, or founder, involves inflammation and damage to the laminae in a horse’s hoof, leading to severe pain and potential fatality. While it can be challenging, laminitis may be preventable in older horses through careful management and attention to their specific needs.
How Can I Prevent Laminitis in My Older Horse?
What is Laminitis?
Laminitis is the inflammation of the laminae, the tissues that attach the hoof wall to the coffin bone inside the hoof. When these structures become damaged, the coffin bone can rotate or sink within the hoof, causing extreme pain and lameness.
What Causes Laminitis in Older Horses?
Several factors can contribute to laminitis in older horses:
- Metabolic Disorders: Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), also known as Cushing’s disease, are common in older horses and increase the risk of laminitis.
- Dietary Issues: High intake of sugars and starches can trigger laminitis, especially in horses with metabolic problems.
- Obesity: Overweight horses are more prone to insulin resistance, a key factor in the development of laminitis.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can also contribute to laminitis.
How Can I Manage My Older Horse’s Diet to Prevent Laminitis?
Proper diet management is crucial for preventing laminitis:
- Limit Sugars and Starches: Choose feeds low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSC). Avoid grains and sweet feeds.
- Provide Fiber: Ensure a diet high in fiber, such as hay. Soak hay to reduce sugar content.
- Use Slow Feeders: Slow feeders can help regulate intake and prevent overeating.
- Regular Weighing: Monitor your horse’s weight and adjust the diet accordingly to prevent obesity.
What Kind of Exercise is Appropriate for Preventing Laminitis?
Regular, moderate exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and help maintain a healthy weight. However, avoid strenuous exercise that could stress the horse’s hooves.
How Does Hoof Care Prevent Laminitis?
Regular and appropriate hoof care is essential:
- Regular Trimming: Keep the hooves balanced and properly trimmed to reduce stress on the laminae.
- Proper Shoeing: Work with a farrier to ensure your horse has appropriate shoeing to support the hooves.
- Soft Footing: Provide soft footing in stalls and paddocks to minimize concussion.
How Can I Reduce Stress to Prevent Laminitis?
Minimize stress in your horse’s environment:
- Consistent Routine: Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding and turnout.
- Social Interaction: Allow social interaction with other horses to reduce isolation and stress.
- Comfortable Environment: Ensure a comfortable and safe living environment.
What Role Do Regular Veterinary Check-Ups Play in Prevention?
Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for early detection and management of conditions that increase the risk of laminitis:
- Metabolic Screening: Regular blood tests can help detect EMS and PPID early.
- Medication: Work with your veterinarian to manage metabolic disorders with appropriate medications.
- Monitoring: Closely monitor horses with a history of laminitis for early signs of recurrence.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What are the early signs of laminitis in horses?
Early signs include increased digital pulse, heat in the hooves, and a reluctance to turn. The horse may also stand with its weight shifted back onto its hind legs to relieve pressure on the front feet.
Can laminitis be completely cured in older horses?
While a complete cure may not always be possible, especially in severe cases, laminitis can be managed effectively with prompt and appropriate care. Early intervention is crucial to minimize damage and improve the horse’s comfort and quality of life.
How does PPID (Cushing’s) increase the risk of laminitis?
PPID leads to elevated cortisol levels, which can cause insulin resistance. Insulin resistance increases the risk of laminitis by disrupting glucose metabolism and affecting blood flow to the hooves.
What type of bedding is best for a horse prone to laminitis?
Soft, supportive bedding such as shavings or straw is ideal. Avoid hard or uneven surfaces that can exacerbate hoof pain.
Are there supplements that can help prevent laminitis?
Some supplements, such as those containing magnesium, chromium, and antioxidants, may support metabolic function and hoof health. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your horse’s diet.
Preventing laminitis in older horses requires a comprehensive approach that includes careful diet management, regular exercise, appropriate hoof care, stress reduction, and veterinary monitoring. By addressing these key areas, you can significantly reduce the risk of laminitis and help your older horse live a comfortable and active life.