Companion Animals

Horse Welfare and Laminitis Prevention in 2026

Laminitis is one of the most painful and common conditions in horses and ponies, particularly native breed ponies on lush pasture. Poor management of body weight and pasture access remains the leading preventable cause.

Key Facts

Laminitis affects an estimated 7-14% of the equine population per year in the UK
Ponies of native breeds (Welsh, Shetland, New Forest) are particularly susceptible
Endocrinopathic laminitis linked to Equine Metabolic Syndrome or PPID is the most common form
Spring and autumn grass flushes create high fructan content that triggers laminitis in susceptible horses
Repeat laminitis episodes cause progressive irreversible damage to hoof laminae

Welfare Considerations

Laminitis is acutely agonising, with horses adopting a characteristic leaning-back stance to relieve pressure on inflamed front hooves. Chronic laminitis involves rotation of the pedal bone through the sole, causing permanent structural damage and long-term pain. The condition is preventable in most cases through appropriate body weight management and pasture restriction, yet remains extremely prevalent due to owner underestimation of risk.

What You Can Do

Monitor body condition score monthly and maintain horses in lean condition
Use a grazing muzzle or strip graze to restrict lush pasture access in spring and autumn
Test horses for PPID and EMS if they have had laminitis or show predisposing signs
Contact your vet at the first sign of laminitis for immediate treatment
Support World Horse Welfare and BETA campaigns on laminitis prevention