Equine Laminitis: Prevention Through Pasture Management and Diet Control

Laminitis is one of the most painful conditions in horses and is largely preventable through appropriate pasture management and dietary control in at-risk animals.

Key Facts

Endocrinopathic laminitis (PPID and EMS-related) is the most common form
At-risk ponies and horses should be restricted from high-sugar spring grass
Grazing muzzles allow turnout while limiting grass intake
Insulin levels can be measured to assess laminitis risk in individual horses
Chronic laminitis cases require specialist farriery to support rotated pedal bones

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis causes severe foot pain from inflammation and disruption of the sensitive laminae connecting the pedal bone to the hoof wall. In severe cases the pedal bone rotates or sinks, causing permanent structural damage. The pain during acute laminitis is among the most severe in equine medicine. Prevention through pasture management is far more effective and welfare-positive than treatment after the event. At-risk horses should be monitored with regular insulin testing, bodyweight management, and strict pasture access control during high-risk periods.

What You Can Do

Restrict at-risk ponies from lush spring and autumn grass
Use a grazing muzzle to allow turnout while limiting grass intake
Monitor body condition score and discuss insulin testing with your vet
Follow prescribed treatment plans immediately after any laminitis episode
Seek specialist farriery and veterinary advice for chronic laminitis cases