Laminitis is one of the most serious and painful hoof conditions a horse can face. It involves inflammation of the laminae—the sensitive tissues that bond the hoof wall to the coffin bone. If left unchecked, laminitis can lead to founder, where the coffin bone rotates or sinks within the hoof.

What Causes Laminitis?

• High-starch or high-sugar diets (grain overload or lush pasture)
• Metabolic disorders like insulin resistance or Cushing’s disease
• Obesity or sudden weight gain
• Systemic illness or infection
• Overexertion on hard surfaces
• Stress from travel, injury, or hormonal changes

Signs of Laminitis

• Reluctance to move or shortened gait
• Shifting weight off front feet
• Hot hooves or increased digital pulse
• Standing with front feet stretched forward (classic laminitic stance)
• Visible hoof rings or distortion over time

What to Do if You Suspect Laminitis

• Call your veterinarian immediately for evaluation and diagnostics
• Remove grain or lush pasture access immediately
• Stall rest on soft bedding may be required
• Cold therapy (icing) during early stages can help reduce inflammation
• Farrier collaboration is key for long-term hoof support

Prevention Strategies

• Feed a low-starch, forage-first diet
• Maintain a healthy body condition score
• Use a grazing muzzle or limit turnout on lush pasture
• Screen for metabolic disorders regularly
• Keep hoof trims on schedule and monitor conformation changes

Why It Matters

Laminitis doesn’t just impact hooves—it affects your horse’s quality of life and future soundness. Early recognition, smart nutrition, and regular hoof care are critical to avoiding a devastating outcome. Prevention is always easier than recovery.