How do I know if my horse has laminitis?
Laminitis is the separation or failure of laminae, which connects the hoof wall to the coffin bone within — can cause permanent structural changes in a horse’s foot, leading to repeated bouts of disease and lasting lameness. Most common symptoms which will let you know that your horse has laminitis are:
- Sensitive feet – your horse may look ‘footy’ and prefer the soft ground to walk on. The horse also may limp and have a shorter, stilted and pottery gait. As well as be reluctant to make tight turns. Too little – or too much – foot lifting may also be noticeable.
- The horse won’t move – the horse will refuse to move and become distressed. He may sweat up, tremble and have increasing and high breathing and heart rates, due to the pain.
- Horse feet are warm and pounding – inflammation of the laminae increases the blood flow to the feet, which can make the hooves feel warm to touch for hours. A strong/bounding digital pulse may also be felt.
- Pain in the sole – severe laminitis will display a pain reaction if you press this area with your fingers.
- An altered foot shape – rings on the hoof wall that is wider at the heel than at the toe or dropped soles with wider than normal white lines are common signs that the horse has suffered from the condition before. These characteristic changes are indicators that they are at a high risk of another episode.
If you notice any sign of horse laminitis, make sure to see your veterinarian. Such treatments as shoe removal drastically decreased and controlled physical movement, painkillers, natural supplements as well as Stem Cell Therapy will take the best effect when used as soon as possible.