Laminitis is a painful and often debilitating condition of the hoof that affects horses and other hooved animals. It is caused by inflammation of the laminae, the soft tissue found between the hoof wall and the coffin bone. This inflammation can cause the laminae to separate, leading to a range of possible symptoms including lameness, increased digital pulses, and heat in the foot. In severe cases, rotation of the coffin bone can occur, leading to further pain and damage.
What Causes Laminitis?
Laminitis can be caused by several factors, including:
- Dietary changes, especially consumption of high-sugar/starch diets.
- Mechanical trauma, such as a hoof being struck or stepped on.
- Endotoxins, which are produced by certain bacteria in the gut.
- Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by Cushing’s disease or pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID).
- Metabolic conditions, such as equine metabolic syndrome (EMS).
- Drug reactions, such as reactions to certain antibiotics.
How is Laminitis Treated?
The first step in treating laminitis is to identify and address the underlying cause. This may include dietary modifications, medical treatment, or changes in the environment.
Dietary Modifications
Diet is often the first line of treatment for laminitic horses. The goal is to reduce the amount of sugar and starch in the diet, as these can exacerbate laminitis. The diet should be high in fiber and low in non-structural carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches. In some cases, additional supplements such as biotin may be recommended.
Medical Treatment
Depending on the underlying cause of the laminitis, medical treatment may be necessary. This may include antibiotics to treat an infection, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation, or hormone therapy to balance hormones.
Environmental Changes
In some cases, environmental changes may be necessary to reduce the risk of laminitis. This may include restricting the horse’s access to pasture, providing a balanced diet, or providing a softer surface for the horse to stand on.
Should Laminitic Horses Have Shoes?
Whether or not a laminitic horse should have shoes is a complex question that should be determined on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, shoes may offer protection and support for a horse suffering from laminitis, while in other cases they may aggravate the condition.
Pros of Shoes for Laminitic Horses
Protection: Shoes can provide protection for the foot and help to prevent further injury. This is particularly important in cases of severe laminitis, where the hoof wall has begun to separate from the coffin bone. Shoes can also provide traction and support, making it easier for the horse to move around.
Pain Relief: Shoes can also provide relief from pain associated with laminitis. By cushioning the foot and providing support, shoes can reduce the amount of weight placed on the laminae and help to reduce pain.
Cons of Shoes for Laminitic Horses
Damage: Shoes can cause further damage to laminitic feet, especially if the laminitis has already caused the hoof wall to separate from the coffin bone. Shoes may also irritate the laminae, making the condition worse.
Risk of Infection: Shoes can also increase the risk of infection, as they can trap moisture in the foot and provide a warm, moist environment for bacteria to thrive. This can make it difficult to treat the laminitis, as the infection must first be addressed before the laminitis can be treated.
Conclusion
The decision of whether or not to shoe a laminitic horse should be made on a case-by-case basis. In some cases, shoes may offer protection and support, while in other cases they may do more harm than good. It is important to consult with a vet or farrier to determine what is best for the horse.