Companion Animals

Horse Laminitis Emergency Welfare

Acute laminitis is a welfare emergency causing severe foot pain, requiring immediate veterinary intervention to relieve suffering and prevent permanent damage to the pedal bone.

Key Facts

Laminitis involves inflammation of the sensitive laminae attaching the pedal bone to the hoof wall
Severe cases involve pedal bone rotation or sinking causing permanent structural damage
Emergency management includes deep bedding, restricted movement, and immediate pain relief
NSAIDs reduce inflammation and pain as a first response measure
Digital pulses and hoof temperature elevation are clinical signs detectable by owners

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis causes exquisite, acute pain and can cause permanent structural damage. Immediate treatment and prevention of further episodes is essential for welfare.

What You Can Do

Call your vet immediately if you suspect laminitis - do not wait
Provide deep stable bedding and restrict movement until veterinary assessment
Learn to detect elevated digital pulses as an early laminitis warning sign
Implement dietary management and grazing restriction to prevent recurrence