Magnesium & Laminitis: A Clear‑Cut Guide for Horse Owners
Magnesium is essential for relaxed muscle and vascular function, which in turn supports healthy hooves. Supplementing—for example with MagRestore® from Performance Equine Nutrition—can help horses that are insulin‑resistant, metabolically challenged, or otherwise prone to laminitis.
What Is Laminitis (Founder)?
Laminitis is the inflammation and weakening of the laminae—the tissues anchoring the hoof wall to the coffin (pedal) bone. Left unchecked, it can cause the bone to rotate or sink, a painful, potentially career‑ending scenario.
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Dietary overload | Sudden gorging on lush spring grass, high‑grain rations |
| Endocrine disorders | PPID (Cushing’s), equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance |
| Mechanical stress | Excessive work on hard ground, bearing extra weight on one limb after an injury |
| Toxins / drugs | Certain plants, endotoxemia, prolonged corticosteroid use |
Warning Signs
- Reluctance to move; short, shuffling steps
- Noticeably warm hooves
- Strong digital pulse at the fetlock or pastern
- “Sawhorse” stance—front feet stretched forward, hind feet tucked under
- Pain‑related sweating or increased heart rate
Diagnosis
A veterinarian confirms laminitis through:
- Clinical exam (pain response, hoof testers, stance)
- Radiographs to gauge coffin‑bone rotation or sinking
- Bloodwork when endocrine disease is suspected
Treatment Snapshot
- Immediate diet change – eliminate grain, restrict pasture, feed low‑NSC forage
- Pain & inflammation control – NSAIDs, cryotherapy (icing feet in early stages)
- Hoof support – corrective trimming, padded shoes or boots installed by an experienced farrier
- Exercise restriction – deep‑bedded stall rest or small paddock until inflammation subsides
- Targeted supplements – magnesium and balanced trace minerals to support metabolic stability
Long‑Term Prevention
- Balanced ration: low in non‑structural carbohydrates (NSC) and properly fortified with magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium.
- Weight management & steady exercise to reduce insulin spikes.
- Routine health checks: test for PPID or insulin resistance in at‑risk horses every 6–12 months.
- Gradual pasture introduction: use a grazing muzzle or dry‑lot turnout during high‑sugar flushes.
Bottom line: Laminitis is multifactorial, but many cases trace back to metabolic stress and dietary imbalance. A proactive program—sound nutrition, strategic supplementation, and vigilant hoof care—gives your horse the best chance to stay comfortable and performing at its peak.