Horse Laminitis: Welfare and Prevention

Laminitis is one of the most painful conditions in horses and ponies, causing severe lameness that can become chronic and debilitating. Understanding causes, prevention, and welfare management is essential for all horse owners.

Key Facts

Laminitis involves disruption of blood flow to the laminae - the sensitive tissue attaching the pedal bone to the hoof wall
In severe or chronic cases, the pedal bone can rotate or sink within the hoof, causing permanent structural damage
Endocrine disease (Equine Metabolic Syndrome, PPID) is now recognised as the primary driver of most laminitis cases
Pasture-associated laminitis occurs when horses consume large quantities of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates in spring grass
Native pony breeds including Exmoor, New Forest, Shetland, and Welsh ponies are particularly susceptible due to metabolic tendencies
Treatment includes complete box rest, deep bedding, corrective farriery, and addressing underlying endocrine disease
PPID (Cushing's disease) treatment with pergolide reduces laminitis risk significantly in affected horses
Grazing management through strip grazing, muzzles, and avoiding peak grass sugar times (morning and warm evenings) reduces risk

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis causes acute and often chronic severe pain. Horses in the acute phase cannot walk normally and may refuse to move or stand with their weight shifted back to relieve pressure on painful feet. The mental state of horses in severe laminitis - unable to move freely, in constant pain, often stabled in restriction - is clearly one of significant suffering. Chronic or recurrent laminitis progressively destroys hoof structure, causing permanent disability. Prevention is far more effective than treatment, and the widespread underdiagnosis of underlying endocrine disease means many horses experience repeated episodes that could be prevented with appropriate management. Recognising early signs and addressing metabolic disease promptly is the critical intervention.

What You Can Do

Have horses and ponies assessed for PPID and Equine Metabolic Syndrome annually if over 10 years or if they have had laminitis
Implement grazing management for at-risk horses and ponies - use a grazing muzzle or restrict access during high-risk periods
Seek emergency veterinary attention at the first signs of laminitis - early treatment significantly improves outcomes
Work with an experienced farrier and vet to manage chronic laminitis cases with appropriate shoeing and monitoring
Maintain appropriate body condition - obesity dramatically increases laminitis risk
Avoid spring grass without appropriate management for known susceptible horses