No, overweight horses are not the only ones that can get laminitis. While obesity is a risk factor, laminitis, an inflammation of the laminae in a hoof, can also be caused by poor diet or diseases associated with inflammation. This condition can cause extreme pain and be fatal.
What is Laminitis?
Laminitis is the inflammation and damage to the laminae within the hoof of animals such as horses and cows. The laminae are the soft tissue structures that attach the coffin bone to the hoof wall. When these become inflamed, the connection weakens, leading to severe pain and potential rotation or sinking of the coffin bone.
What Causes Laminitis in Horses?
While obesity is a well-known risk factor, several other factors can trigger laminitis:
- Dietary Issues A diet high in carbohydrates or sugars can disrupt the hindgut microbiome, leading to inflammation and laminitis.
- Underlying Diseases Conditions like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) or Cushing’s disease (PPID) can increase the risk.
- Mechanical Stress Excessive work on hard surfaces or prolonged weight-bearing on one limb due to injury can also cause laminitis.
- Toxins Exposure to certain toxins can trigger laminitis.
How Can I Prevent Laminitis?
Preventing laminitis involves managing risk factors through proper care and monitoring:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight Keep your horse at an ideal body condition score through balanced diet and exercise.
- Regulate Diet Limit access to lush pastures and high-sugar feeds. Use slow feeders to extend eating time and prevent sugar overload.
- Regular Exercise Consistent exercise improves insulin sensitivity and overall health.
- Routine Checkups Regular veterinary checkups can help detect and manage underlying conditions like EMS or PPID.
- Proper Hoof Care Regular trimming and shoeing can help maintain hoof balance and reduce mechanical stress.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What are the early signs of laminitis?
Early signs of laminitis include pain, especially after exercise, increased digital pulse in the hoof, and a reluctance to turn. Horses may also shift weight between their feet to alleviate discomfort.
How is laminitis diagnosed?
Laminitis is diagnosed through a physical exam, assessing hoof pain and digital pulse, and often with radiographs (X-rays) to evaluate the position of the coffin bone within the hoof.
Can laminitis be cured?
While there is no definitive cure for laminitis, early and aggressive treatment can manage the condition and improve the horse’s comfort and prognosis. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, providing support to the hoof, and addressing any underlying causes.
Laminitis is a complex and painful condition that can affect any horse, regardless of its weight. Understanding the risk factors and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of your horse developing this debilitating disease.
Want to discover more about hoof care and preventative measures for your horse?