Laminitis is a very serious condition that affects horses, ponies and donkeys. It is a painful condition that occurs when the sensitive laminae inside the hooves become inflamed and damaged. It can cause lameness, and in severe cases, lead to the horse having to be humanely euthanized. Knowing what you can and can not feed a laminitic horse is essential in helping to ensure the animal recovers and remains healthy.
What Causes Laminitis?
Laminitis can be caused by many different factors, including obesity, poor nutrition, overfeeding of sugars and starches, certain medications, and trauma. In some cases, the exact cause may never be known.
What are the Signs of Laminitis?
The signs of laminitis can be quite varied but generally include:
- Lameness
- Heat in the hooves
- Soreness
- Sensitivity to the touch
- An increased heart rate
Diagnosis of Laminitis
If you suspect your horse is suffering from laminitis, it is important to seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to diagnose the condition and recommend a course of treatment. Your vet may also carry out a number of tests, including blood tests, imaging scans and hoof x-rays.
Treatment of Laminitis
Once laminitis has been diagnosed, your vet will advise you on the best course of treatment for your horse. This may include giving the horse painkillers, anti-inflammatories and other medications. Your vet may also suggest the use of special shoes or pads, and they may also advise on a diet change.
What Can You Not Feed a Laminitic Horse?
When it comes to feeding a laminitic horse, it is important to understand what foods should be avoided. If a horse is suffering from laminitis, it is important to restrict their sugar and starch intake as this can worsen the condition. Foods that should be avoided include:
- Sugar-rich grains and cereals
- High-sugar fruits such as apples, pears and bananas
- High-starch vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and peas
- High-sugar treats such as candy and cakes
What Can You Feed a Laminitic Horse?
When feeding a laminitic horse, it is important to ensure that their diet is low in sugars and starches. The best diet for a laminitic horse is one that is high in fibre and low in energy.
Good sources of fibre to feed your laminitic horse include:
- Hay
- Grass
- Oat straw
- Alfalfa
- Timothy hay
- Beet pulp
Fibre-Based Supplements
In some cases, your vet may recommend the use of a fibre-based supplement to help your laminitic horse. These supplements are designed to provide your horse with the necessary nutrients whilst still keeping their sugar and starch intake low.
High-Fibre Concentrates
Your vet may also recommend the use of high-fibre concentrates. These are designed to provide your horse with the necessary energy levels whilst still keeping their sugar and starch levels low. High-fibre concentrates are usually made from hay, alfalfa or beet pulp.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements
It is also important to ensure that your laminitic horse is getting the necessary vitamins and minerals. Your vet may recommend the use of a vitamin and mineral supplement to help ensure your horse is getting all the necessary nutrients.
Conclusion
It is essential to ensure that you are feeding your laminitic horse the correct diet. Foods that are high in sugar and starch should be avoided, and instead, good sources of fibre should be provided. Your vet may also recommend the use of supplements to ensure your horse is getting the necessary vitamins and minerals. With the correct diet and care, it is possible for laminitic horses to make a full recovery.
References
- American Association of Equine Practitioners. (n.d.). Laminitis. Retrieved from https://aaep.org/horsehealth/laminitis
- British Horse Society. (n.d.). Laminitis. Retrieved from https://www.bhs.org.uk/advice-and-information/horse-health/laminitis
- Compassion in World Farming. (2020). Feeding Horses. Retrieved from https://www.ciwf.org.uk/animals-farmed/horses/feeding
- Horse & Hound. (2017). What to feed a laminitic horse. Retrieved from https://www.horseandhound.co.uk/features/what-feed-laminitic-horse-423846