Horse Laminitis: Preventing a Painful and Debilitating Condition

Laminitis causes severe hoof pain in horses and ponies, with prevention through diet and weight management far more effective than treatment of established cases.

Key Facts

Laminitis involves inflammation of the laminae connecting the hoof wall to the pedal bone, causing intense pain
Pasture-associated laminitis linked to high-sugar grass is the most common form in ponies and native breeds
Equine metabolic syndrome and Cushing's disease are significant underlying risk factors for recurrent laminitis
Severe cases involve rotation or sinking of the pedal bone through the sole of the hoof
Laminitis is a leading cause of euthanasia in horses and ponies in the UK
Early recognition of the characteristic leaning-back stance and bounding digital pulse is critical for outcomes

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis causes extreme pain — horses with acute episodes often cannot bear to move and show obvious distress. Chronic cases involve constant low-grade pain that profoundly affects quality of life. The welfare tragedy is that most cases are preventable through dietary management, appropriate exercise and treatment of underlying endocrine disease. Owners of native breeds and ponies in particular need proactive education about prevention strategies.

What You Can Do

Restrict grass access for ponies and native breeds during spring and autumn laminitis risk periods
Monitor body condition score regularly and address obesity before it causes laminitis
Test for equine metabolic syndrome and Cushing's disease in at-risk horses
Call your vet immediately if you suspect laminitis — early treatment significantly improves outcomes
Work with a farrier experienced in therapeutic shoeing for horses recovering from laminitis