Learn to Recognize the Signs of Laminitis
Every day veterinarians across the country see hundreds of cases of laminitis,
a painful
disease that affects the feet of horses. Laminitis results from the disruption
of blood flow
to the sensitive and insensitive laminae within the foot, which secure
the coffin bone to the
hoof wall. While the exact mechanisms by which the feet are damaged remain
a mystery,
certain precipitating events can produce laminitis. Although laminitis
occurs in the feet,
the underlying cause is often a disturbance elsewhere in the horse's body.
As a horse owner, it is important to recognize the signs of laminitis
and seek veterinary help
immediately. Signs of acute laminitis include the following:
Lameness, especially
when a horse is turning in circles; shifting lameness when standing
Heat in the feet
Increased digital
pulse in the feet
Pain in the toe region
when pressure is applied with hoof testers
Reluctant or hesitant
gait, as if "walking on eggshells"
A "sawhorse stance,"
with the front feet stretched out in front to alleviate pressure on the
toes and the hind feet "camped out" or positioned farther back
than normal to bear more
weight
Signs of chronic laminitis may include the following:
Rings in hoof wall
that become wider as they are followed from toe to heel
Bruised soles or "stone
bruises"
Widened white line,
commonly called "seedy toe," with occurrence of blood pockets
and/or abscesses
Dropped soles or flat
feet
Thick, "cresty"
neck
Dished hooves, which
are the result of unequal rates of hoof growth
If you suspect laminitis, consider it a medical emergency and notify
your veterinarian
immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance for recovery.
For more information about caring for the older horse, email
us to request a copy of the
“Laminitis: Prevention and Treatment” brochure, provided by
the American Association of
Equine Practitioners in partnership with Educational Partner Bayer Animal
Health. Additional
information is available by visiting the AAEP’s horse health web
site, www.myHorseMatters.com.
Reprinted with permission from the American Association of Equine Practitioners.