More severe signs can include reluctance to move, increased time spent lying down or the characteristic leaning-back posture sometimes described as a sawhorse stance.
Laminitis can cause permanent structural changes within the hoof, including rotation or sinking of the pedal bone. This is why recognising changes early and seeking veterinary advice is important.
For horses or ponies that have experienced repeated episodes of laminitis, there may also be an underlying metabolic condition contributing to the problem. Depending on the clinical signs, testing for conditions such as Cushing’s or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) may help identify factors that can be managed to reduce the risk of future episodes.
Dietary management can also form an important part of prevention. Depending on the individual horse or pony, recommendations may include reducing non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), using tested low-NSC hay such as teff or Rhodes hay, soaking and rinsing hay, avoiding high-sugar pastures and carefully managing other dietary sources.
At Barkly Street Vets, the team can assist with laminitis workups, including on-farm hoof X-rays and blood testing, to help with diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
If your horse or pony has experienced laminitis before, or you would like to have them assessed before spring grass gets underway, contact Barkly Street Vets to discuss their care.
Call (03) 5762 6168, visit barklystreetvets.com.au, or speak with the team at 65 Barkly Street, Benalla.
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