Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Autumn Grass and Laminitis Risk

Autumn grass contains elevated fructan sugars that trigger laminitis in susceptible horses and ponies, requiring specific management during this period.

Key Facts

Grass fructan levels peak in autumn and during rapid growth periods
Native breeds and ponies have evolved without access to high-sugar improved pastures
Laminitis from autumn grass can be severe and life-threatening
Strip grazing and restricted turnout hours reduce fructan intake
Grazing muzzles reduce grass consumption by 75-80% while allowing turnout

Welfare Considerations

Autumn laminitis causes severe, acute hoof pain that can result in chronic founder and euthanasia. Preventive management through restricting access to high-risk pasture during autumn prevents enormous individual suffering in susceptible animals.

What You Can Do

Implement restricted turnout during autumn for laminitis-susceptible horses
Use a grazing muzzle to reduce fructan intake while maintaining some turnout
Monitor digital pulses and hoof temperature daily during high-risk periods