Laminitis, or founder, is an inflammation of the laminae in a hoof, often caused by a poor diet, obesity, or other inflammation-related diseases. This can cause extreme pain and be fatal for animals like horses and cows. Dietary changes are crucial in managing and preventing this condition.
What is Laminitis and Why Does Diet Matter?
Laminitis involves inflammation and damage to the laminae, which are tissues that attach the hoof to the coffin bone inside the hoof. Diet plays a significant role because high levels of sugars and starches can trigger hormonal and metabolic changes that lead to laminitis. Managing a horse’s diet can reduce these triggers, alleviating and preventing the condition.
How Should I Adjust My Horse’s Diet to Manage Laminitis?
Limit Sugar and Starch Intake
Reducing the intake of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), such as sugars and starches, is essential. These carbohydrates can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels, contributing to laminitis.
Choose Low-NSC Feeds
Opt for feeds specifically formulated to be low in NSC. Many commercial feeds are labeled with NSC content, making it easier to select appropriate options.
Avoid Grain-Based Feeds
Grains are typically high in starch. Replacing grain-based feeds with alternative energy sources like beet pulp or soybean hulls can help manage blood sugar levels.
Soak Hay Before Feeding
Soaking hay in water for 30-60 minutes can reduce its sugar content. Discard the water after soaking to remove dissolved sugars.
Use Slow Feeders
Slow feeders extend eating time, preventing rapid consumption of feed and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Provide a Balanced Diet
Ensure the horse receives a balanced diet with adequate vitamins, minerals, and protein. Consult with an equine nutritionist to formulate a diet that meets the horse’s specific needs.
What Other Factors Contribute to Laminitis?
Obesity
Obesity is a significant risk factor for laminitis. Overweight horses are more prone to insulin resistance, which can trigger laminitis.
Endocrine Disorders
Conditions like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), also known as Cushing’s disease, can increase the risk of laminitis.
Exercise
Regular, moderate exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and help manage weight, reducing the risk of laminitis.
People Also Ask (PAA)
How do I test my hay for sugar content?
Testing hay for sugar content involves sending a sample to an agricultural lab for analysis. These labs use methods like near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to determine the NSC content, helping you make informed decisions about your horse’s diet.
What are the early signs of laminitis?
Early signs of laminitis include increased digital pulse, heat in the hooves, and a reluctance to turn. Horses may also exhibit a "sawhorse stance," where they lean back to shift weight off their front feet.
Can pasture grass cause laminitis?
Yes, pasture grass, especially during spring and fall, can be high in sugars and fructans, which can trigger laminitis in susceptible horses. Managing grazing time and using grazing muzzles can help mitigate this risk.
How often should I consult with an equine nutritionist?
Consulting with an equine nutritionist at least once a year is advisable, especially for horses with a history of laminitis or those at high risk. Regular consultations ensure the diet meets the horse’s changing needs.
Making appropriate dietary changes is crucial for managing and preventing laminitis in horses. By limiting sugar and starch intake, choosing low-NSC feeds, and ensuring a balanced diet, you can significantly reduce the risk.
Want to discover more about specific feeding strategies for horses with metabolic disorders?