Companion Animals

Horse Laminitis Management: Supporting Hoof Health and Comfort

Laminitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the sensitive laminae within the hoof, affecting horses and ponies and causing severe lameness that requires urgent and ongoing management.

Key Facts

Laminitis is among the most common and serious welfare concerns in domesticated horses
Ponies, native breeds, and overweight individuals are at highest risk
Causes include grass sugars, grain overload, systemic illness, and Cushing's disease
Digital venography and advanced imaging reveal severity of lamellar damage
Management requires restricted grazing, correct farriery, and pain relief

Welfare Considerations

Acute laminitis is excruciating - horses may refuse to move, shift weight constantly, and show visible distress. Chronic laminitis causes ongoing low-grade pain that owners may underestimate because horses adapt their behaviour. The rotation or sinking of the pedal bone creates lasting structural damage. Skilled remedial farriery combined with veterinary pain management is essential for welfare.

What You Can Do

Restrict grazing using a dry lot, track, or grazing muzzle for at-risk horses
Identify and manage underlying causes including PPID and insulin dysregulation
Work with a vet and remedial farrier experienced in laminitis rehabilitation
Provide deep bedding to support sore hooves during acute episodes
Learn to monitor digital pulses and early warning signs of a laminitis episode