Valley Veterinary Group

About Laminitis

Laminitis, also known as "fever in the feet", is an inflammation in the inside lining of the foot, usually the front feet, and causes lameness. Although the exact cause of laminitis is unknown, situations that commonly precede laminitis include obesity, excessive feeding, trauma due to fast or prolonged work on hard surfaces, the use of corticosteriods drugs, cushing's disease and toxaemia. Ponies are more susceptible to laminitis than horses and the condition often arises as a result of lush spring grass.

Symptoms Of Laminitis

Symptoms of laminitis typically include heat in the feet, especially around the front accompanied by short steps and an unwillingness to put weight on the feet. In severe cases the pony may be reluctant to move at all. Other symptoms can include a raised temperature, increased pulse rate and increased respiration rate. Rings may also form around the wall of the hoof and in extreme cases the coffin bone within the hoof wall may penetrate the sole of the foot.

Treatment Of Laminitis

Any pony suspected of suffering from laminitis should be placed in a stable with a deep clean bed and veterinary advice should be sought immediately.

Laminitis weakens or destroys the laminae between the coffin bone and the hoof wall and although there is no cure, treatment can ease the condition. X-rays of the feet, particularly as the laminitis progresses, allows the movement of the coffin bone to be monitored. Treatment may involve remedial farriery, anti-inflammatory medication (such as bute), and strict box rest with soft bedding. In very severe or prolonged cases euthanasia may need to be considered.

Prevention Of Laminitis

Although not all cases are preventable, not allowing ponies to become overweight, restriction of lush grass, and regular foot care will all reduce the risk of laminitis.

The Laminitis Trust

The Laminitis Trust is a registered charity whose aim is to raise money for laminitis research and the Laminitis Trust web site provides helpful information to those with horses or ponies suffering from laminitis.