Pet Care
Your Horse and.....Laminitis
Laminitis is a very painful condition that commonly affects horses and ponies. There are two main types:
Acute Laminitis – this must be treated as an emergency as early treatment can often halt its progression. Can occur as a result of trauma e.g. excessive fast road work, jumping on hard ground, retained afterbirth, viral and bacterial infections.
Chronic laminitis – this occurs when the pedal bone in the foot rotates or sinks. Inside the horses foot the pedal bone is supported by special tissues called sensitive laminae, these in turn interlock with insensitive laminae on the inside of the hoof wall. Laminitis is an inflammation of these laminae. The laminae around the front of the foot are often worst affected, tearing away from the pedal bone. This tearing of the laminae is extremely painful for the horse. As the area weakens, the pedal bone is pulled back by the deep digital flexor tendon, causing a rotation of the pedal bone. If you suspect your pony has laminitis you must call out the veterinarian without delay, as prompt action and treatment may prevent it becoming more severe. Your veterinarian may prescribe painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and even a mild sedative depending upon the severity of the condition. Call out your farrier who can help tremendously with corrective farriery.
Signs of Laminitis · Lameness - especially on a circle · Hooves that feel hot to the touch · Painful hooves when tapped · A ‘rocking horse’ stance – with front feet stretched out in front · Raised pulse and respiratory rate · Increased digital pulse · Beware of over weight ponies with thick ‘cresty’ necks, indicates a high risk · Rings in the hoof wall that are closer at toes and wider at heels
Preventing laminitis Make sure you feed a good balanced diet for your horse/pony Avoid over-feeding, restrict high starch (energy) feedstuffs Keep feed store locked to prevent risk of stolen food Restrict access to rich spring and autumn grass – when laminitis is most likely to occur Exercise horse regularly Avoid sudden feed changes Avoid excessive fast work on hard surfaces Inspect feet daily.