What kind of diet should a horse with laminitis have?

A horse with laminitis, an inflammation of the laminae in the hoof, requires a specialized diet to manage the condition and prevent further complications. The primary goal is to reduce sugar and starch intake, which can trigger or worsen laminitis. This involves carefully selecting feeds and managing pasture access to minimize exposure to high levels of nonstructural carbohydrates.

What Should a Horse with Laminitis Eat?

Low-Carbohydrate Diet

The cornerstone of a laminitis diet is minimizing nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC), which include sugars and starches. Excess NSC can lead to insulin dysregulation, a key factor in laminitis.

• Hay: Should be the primary source of calories, but it needs to be tested for NSC content. Hay with less than 10% NSC is ideal. Soaking hay for 30-60 minutes can help reduce sugar content, but it also leaches out some nutrients, so balance is important.
• Commercial Feeds: Choose commercial feeds specifically formulated for laminitic horses. These are typically low in starch and sugar and high in fiber.
• Alternative Fiber Sources: Beet pulp (without molasses) and soy hulls can be used to add fiber to the diet without increasing NSC levels.
• Limited Pasture Access: Grass, especially lush spring grass, can be high in sugars. Limit grazing, use a grazing muzzle, or turn out horses during times of day when sugar levels are lower (late night/early morning).

Balanced Nutrition

While restricting carbohydrates is crucial, the diet must still provide all the essential nutrients for overall health.

• Protein: Ensure adequate protein intake for muscle maintenance and repair.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Supplement with a balanced vitamin and mineral mix, especially if hay is soaked, as soaking can reduce nutrient content.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These can help reduce inflammation. Flaxseed and fish oil are good sources.

Feeding Management

How you feed is as important as what you feed.

• Small, Frequent Meals: This helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Slow Feeders: Use slow feeders or hay nets to prolong eating time and prevent long periods without food.
• Fresh Water: Always provide access to fresh, clean water.

What to Avoid Feeding a Horse with Laminitis?

• Grains: Avoid high-starch grains like oats, corn, and barley.
• Sweet Feeds: These often contain molasses, which is high in sugar.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Limit or avoid these due to their sugar content.
• Lush Pastures: Especially in spring and early summer, when sugar levels are high.

Practical Examples

• Case Study: A horse diagnosed with chronic laminitis was put on a diet of soaked hay (NSC <10%), a low-starch commercial feed, and a vitamin/mineral supplement. Pasture access was limited to early morning hours. Within a few months, the horse showed significant improvement in hoof health and soundness.
• Statistics: Studies have shown that horses with insulin dysregulation are significantly more likely to develop laminitis. Managing NSC intake can reduce this risk.

People Also Ask (PAA) Section

How do I test my hay for NSC content?

You can send a hay sample to an agricultural lab for analysis. They will provide a detailed report on the NSC, sugar, starch, and fiber content, helping you make informed decisions about your horse’s diet.

Can horses with laminitis eat treats?

It’s best to avoid commercial treats, as they often contain sugar and starch. If you want to give your horse a treat, offer a small amount of low-sugar options like a few strands of hay or a small piece of carrot (in moderation).

How often should I feed my horse with laminitis?

Ideally, horses with laminitis should be fed small meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Using a slow feeder or hay net can help prolong eating time and prevent long periods without food.

What are the signs of laminitis?

Signs of laminitis include lameness (especially in the front feet), increased digital pulse, heat in the hooves, and a characteristic "walking on eggshells" stance. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your horse has laminitis.

How important is exercise for a horse with laminitis?

Once the acute phase of laminitis has passed and your veterinarian approves, controlled exercise can be beneficial. It helps improve circulation, promote hoof health, and manage weight. However, it’s crucial to avoid overworking the horse and causing further stress on the hooves.

In summary, managing a horse with laminitis requires a comprehensive approach that includes a carefully controlled, low-carbohydrate diet, balanced nutrition, and proper feeding management. Regular consultation with your veterinarian and a qualified equine nutritionist is essential to create a tailored plan for your horse’s specific needs. Would you like to explore other health conditions in horses?