Laminitis in Horses

 24/7 Emergency Laminitis Care for Horses in Brisbane, Ipswich and Lockyer Valley

 Laminitis, also called founder, is a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.

While there are many causes of laminitis, the end result is a rotated or sunk coffin bone that significantly reduces your horse’s ability to bear weight on the affected hoof.

Working alongside your farrier or trimmer, veterinary intervention is essential to overcome laminitis. While recovery can be lengthy, a comprehensive treatment plan involving stable rest, hoof support and correct nutrition will give your horse the best possible outcome.

Causes 

Laminitis is known to be more prevalent in ponies, geldings and older horses. Unfortunately, any horse suffering Equine Metabolic Syndrome or Equine Cushings Disease is predisposed to laminitis.

The most common causes are:

• Obesity
• Working on hard surfaces
• High fevers
• Stress

Obesity-induced laminitis is often seen in ponies that are housed on rich, lush forage with high sugar content.

Signs & Symptoms 

Lameness is the most common indicator of laminitis. However, not all horses will show laminitic signs and, in these cases, only radiographs will reveal the condition.

The most common signs of laminitis are:

• Lameness, usually in the front hooves
• Stiffness
• Shifting weight to the back hooves

Treatment Options

 If treated early, your horse may make a full recovery from laminitis. In the acute phase, a veterinarian and farrier will work together to rehabilitate your horse and prevent the condition from becoming chronic.

Treatment usually involves:

• Administering medications
• Change in diet
• Corrective hoof care
• Restricting pasture intake

Your Next Steps

If you suspect your horse is suffering from laminitis, call us immediately on (07) 5411 4554 to speak with a qualified veterinarian about a treatment plan. For after hours emergency assistance, call 07 5411 4554.