Horse Laminitis Post-Recovery Hoof Management

Horses that survive laminitis attacks require careful long-term hoof management to prevent recurrence and maintain soundness and welfare.

Key Facts

Laminitis results from disruption of blood flow to the laminae connecting the pedal bone to the hoof wall
Severe or repeated laminitis can cause pedal bone rotation or sinking, causing chronic pain and lameness
Therapeutic farriery - including heart bar shoes and wide-web shoes - can support damaged feet post-attack
Dietary management to prevent obesity and restrict non-structural carbohydrate intake is essential for prevention
Regular farriery at 4-6 week intervals is critical for laminitis-prone horses to maintain hoof balance

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis is one of the most painful conditions that horses experience, with the inflammation and pressure within the hoof causing acute agonising pain that can persist into chronic lameness. Post-recovery management is not optional but essential to prevent recurrence. Horses that experience repeated laminitis episodes have progressively worse welfare outcomes, eventually requiring euthanasia. Proactive dietary management and monitoring are the most important welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Work with a vet and an experienced farrier to develop a long-term hoof management plan after laminitis
Implement strict dietary management including restricted access to rich spring and autumn pasture
Use a grazing muzzle or track system to control pasture intake in laminitis-prone horses
Monitor body condition score monthly and maintain your horse at a healthy weight year-round
Know the early signs of laminitis (foot pointing, reluctance to walk, warm hooves) and act immediately