If you suspect laminitis, contact your veterinarian immediately. Laminitis is a painful medical emergency, and prompt treatment gives the horse the best chance of recovery. The American Association of Equine Practitioners recommends seeking veterinary help as soon as signs appear.
What Is Laminitis?
Laminitis damages the sensitive tissues that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone. In severe cases, the bone can rotate or sink within the hoof capsule. Causes can include insulin dysregulation, PPID, sudden dietary overload, systemic illness, and excessive weight-bearing on another limb.
Warning Signs
- Reluctance to move or a short, hesitant gait
- Heat in the feet or a stronger-than-normal digital pulse
- Shifting weight repeatedly from one foot to another
- A “sawhorse” stance with the front feet stretched forward
- Pain when turning or when pressure is applied to the toe
Diagnosis and Treatment
A veterinarian may use a physical examination, hoof testers, radiographs, and bloodwork to identify the severity and underlying cause. Treatment may involve pain control, cryotherapy during the acute stage, dietary changes, movement restriction, and coordinated hoof support from a veterinarian and experienced farrier.
Where Nutrition Fits
Nutrition is part of long-term management, especially for horses with insulin dysregulation or other metabolic concerns. The complete ration may need adjustments to calories, non-structural carbohydrates, forage, and mineral balance.
Magnesium is an essential mineral, but a magnesium supplement is not emergency treatment for laminitis and should not replace veterinary care. A veterinarian or qualified equine nutritionist can help determine whether the horse’s total diet supplies an appropriate amount of magnesium and other nutrients.
Long-Term Risk Reduction
- Maintain an appropriate body condition.
- Introduce pasture and feed changes gradually.
- Use tested forage and a balanced ration when possible.
- Discuss testing for PPID or insulin dysregulation with your veterinarian.
- Keep up with regular veterinary and farrier care.