Q&A: How do I know if my horse has laminitis?

Laminitis is a painful and crippling condition which can have an acute sudden onset or be progressive overtime. Signs of laminitis may vary depending on the severity of the condition but can include; 

• Depression
• Lameness, reluctance to walk or turn around 
• Shifting weight from foot to foot
• Increased periods of lying down
• Heat in hooves, especially around coronet band
• Pain when pressure applied to sole
• An increased or bounding pulse in affected feet
• The classic laminitis stance – front legs outstretched and rocking back to move the weight onto the hind legs

If you notice any of these signs in your horse contact your veterinarian to get a correct diagnosis. They will be able to advise the best the course of treatment and most importantly help to relieve some of the pain.  

Originally published in My Pet Magazine Issue 16, Spring 2018.
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