Laminitis Management: Advanced Welfare Approach

An in-depth guide to laminitis management in horses and ponies, covering acute treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term prevention.

Key Facts

Laminitis involves inflammation of the sensitive laminae connecting the pedal bone to the hoof wall
Acute laminitis is an emergency requiring immediate treatment
Rotation of the pedal bone causes severe pain and long-term structural damage
Endocrinopathic laminitis (EMS, PPID) is now recognised as the most common form
Strict dietary control is the foundation of prevention in at-risk animals
Therapeutic shoeing and corrective farriery support recovery and comfort

Welfare Considerations and Management

Welfare-centred laminitis management requires emergency response to acute episodes and long-term management of predisposing conditions. Acute treatment includes deep bedding for comfort, limited movement, cold hosing, and NSAIDs (phenylbutazone, flunixin). Endocrinopathic laminitis requires treatment of PPID with pergolide and management of EMS through diet and exercise. Corrective farriery with rolled-toe or heart-bar shoes provides mechanical support. Regular monitoring for digital pulse changes enables early intervention.

What You Can Do

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately at first signs of laminitis
Test all horses with recurrent laminitis for PPID and EMS
Manage pasture access strictly in susceptible ponies throughout the year
Work with your farrier and vet on corrective shoeing and rehabilitation