Laminitis is one of the most serious conditions a horse can suffer from, and recognising the signs early can make all the difference when it comes to treatment and recovery. It's a condition that can affect the horse’s hooves and cause significant pain, sometimes even leading to permanent damage. Unfortunately, the signs of laminitis can often be subtle, and the condition can progress quickly, so it's vital that horse owners are alert to any changes in their horse's behaviour or movement.
1. Changing Gait or Movement
Horses with laminitis may appear ‘off’ or uncomfortable, especially when walking or trotting. You might notice your horse shifting their weight from one foot to another or walking in a stilted, hesitant manner. They may avoid walking on hard surfaces, and in severe cases, they may appear to be walking on their toes, with their heels raised.
2. Reluctance to Move
If your horse seems unusually stiff or reluctant to move, or if they stand still for long periods, this could be an early sign of laminitis. Laminitic horses often feel tender in their feet, and as a result, they may be hesitant to walk or move around as they usually would. Keep an eye on their overall energy levels if they seem less willing to go out and about or reluctant to engage in activities they normally enjoy, it's worth investigating further.
3. Heat in the Hooves
One of the classic signs of laminitis is heat in the hooves, which is often most noticeable in the front feet. If you run your hands down your horse’s legs and feel that their hooves are noticeably warmer than usual, this could indicate inflammation in the laminae, the structures inside the hoof that connect the hoof wall to the underlying bone.
4. Increased Pulse or Sensitivity in the Hoof
A raised pulse in the hoof can also point to laminitis, so check the digital pulse at the back of the fetlock. If the pulse feels stronger than usual, this is often a sign of inflammation or circulation issues in the hoof. Additionally, if your horse is unusually sensitive when you apply pressure to their hooves or when they stand on hard ground, this can indicate the onset of laminitis.
5. A ‘Rocking Horse’ Posture
One of the most obvious signs of laminitis is a change in posture. A horse in discomfort may shift their weight back onto their hind legs, often standing with a “rocking horse” posture, with the front feet more under their body to reduce pressure on the painful hooves. This posture is the horse’s way of trying to alleviate the pressure on the affected limbs.
6. Changes in Coat and Hoof Condition
While not always immediately apparent, laminitis can also cause changes to the overall condition of your horse’s coat and hooves. You may notice that their coat becomes dull or they develop a bloated, 'cresty' neck. Hoof growth can also become irregular, with the walls becoming brittle, cracked, or softer than usual.
What To Do If You Suspect Laminitis
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Call your vet as soon as possible, and be ready to provide information about your horse's symptoms and recent activities. Early intervention is key to preventing more severe damage and ensuring the best possible outcome for your horse.
Preventing Laminitis
While laminitis can sometimes occur without warning, there are a few measures you can take to reduce the risk. Keeping your horse at a healthy weight, managing their diet (especially their intake of rich grass or high-sugar feeds), and ensuring regular exercise can all play a role in prevention. If your horse is prone to laminitis, your vet may suggest a tailored management plan to reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.
Laminitis is a painful and often devastating condition, but with early detection and prompt treatment, many horses can recover and return to normal activities. Always stay vigilant and trust your instincts you know your horse best.
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