Laminitis is a serious medical condition that can affect equine animals in several different ways. It is an inflammatory condition of the inner structures that support the hoof, and can result in pain, lameness, and even death due to the inability of the animal to move or bear weight on their feet. It is important to understand what you can and cannot feed a laminitic horse in order to provide them with the best management and care possible.
Understanding Laminitis
Laminitis is a complex condition that is caused by a variety of factors, including metabolic issues such as obesity, equine Cushing’s Disease, and excessive grain intake. It can also be caused by injuries to the feet, strenuous exercise, and even the prolonged standing of a horse in a stall. It is important to identify the cause of laminitis in order to provide the best management and care for the animal.
The Signs and Symptoms of Laminitis
The signs and symptoms of laminitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common signs of laminitis include a reluctance to move, pain in the hoof, an increased digital pulse in the feet, and a warm or hot hoof. In more severe cases, the horse may be reluctant to stand or walk, may show signs of weight shifting, and may display a reluctance to put weight on their feet. In extreme cases, the horse may even lie down and be unable to stand up.
What Can You Not Feed a Laminitic Horse?
When dealing with a laminitic horse, it is important to understand what you can and cannot feed them. It is important to avoid feeding the horse any type of high sugar or high carbohydrate feed, as these can contribute to the development of laminitis. This includes sweet feeds, oats, corn, and other grains. It is also important to avoid feeding the horse any type of sugar or molasses-based treats, as this can worsen the condition.
In addition, it is important to avoid feeding the horse any type of feed that is high in fat, as this can also contribute to the development of laminitis. This includes corn oil, vegetable oil, and soybean oil. It is also important to avoid feeding the horse any type of feed that is high in starch, as this can increase the risk of laminitis. This includes grains such as wheat, barley, and rye.
Feeding a Laminitic Horse
When feeding a laminitic horse, it is important to give them a diet that is low in sugar and starch, and high in fiber. This can include hay, pasture grass, and haylage. It is also important to provide the horse with ample access to fresh water, as this can help to keep the horse hydrated and reduce the risk of laminitis.
In addition, it is important to provide the horse with a high-quality, balanced supplement that is specifically designed for horses with laminitis. This supplement should include vitamins and minerals, as well as essential fatty acids and amino acids, which can help to support the horse’s overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
When dealing with a laminitic horse, it is important to understand what you can and cannot feed them in order to provide them with the best management and care possible. It is important to avoid feeding the horse any type of high sugar or high carbohydrate feed, as well as any type of feed that is high in fat or starch. Instead, it is important to feed the horse a diet that is low in sugar and starch, and high in fiber, as well as provide them with a high-quality, balanced supplement that is specifically designed for horses with laminitis. By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure that your laminitic horse is receiving the proper nutrition and care that they need.