Laminitis
Laminitis is a disease of the sensitive laminae of the foot in a horse. The front hooves are most commonly affected, although the hind feet are sometimes affected. Its name means inflammation of the laminae, although inflammation is no longer considered as the key mechanism of the disease process.Laminitis can be caused by any of the following although in most cases it is caused by a combination of factors rather than just one.
- A carbohydrate (sugar) overload through over-eating of lush grass or excessive quantities of concentrates (the most common cause).
- Obesity is closely associated with laminitis.
- Metabolic changes in overweight horses are an area of much new research. Sometimes called: "peripheral Cushing's disease".
- Cushing's Disease is a hormonal disorder caused by a benign tumour of the pituitary gland. This is common on older horses and ponies and produces a long, curly coat even in summer.
- Trimming or shoeing with an overlong toe can be a contributory factor in triggering laminitis. In many cases the foot may have been left to grow too long.
- Infections can cause release of toxins into the blood stream which may trigger laminitis.
- A retained placenta is a renowned cause of laminitis.
- During periods of stress the body releases cortisol which can contribute to the development of laminitis in some horses.
- Concussion injury due to flat feet or low heels and when performing repetetive work on hard ground.
- Treatment with anti-inflammatory corticosteroids can trigger laminitis on rare occasions.