Laminitis is one of the most painful and debilitating conditions in horses and ponies, caused by disrupted blood flow to the sensitive laminae of the hoof. Dietary management and early intervention are critical to preventing recurrence and chronic suffering.
Acute laminitis causes severe laminar pain: affected horses stand with weight shifted back, are reluctant to move, and show elevated digital pulse. Chronic laminitis with coffin bone rotation causes continuous pain during every step. Welfare management requires immediate removal from pasture, anti-inflammatory medication, deep supportive bedding, and corrective farriery. Long-term, affected animals require strict dietary management: strip grazing or track systems limit pasture access, while soaked hay reduces sugar content. Horses with PPID require pergolide medication to control the hormonal dysfunction driving repeated episodes.