There are several causes that can contribute to the development of laminitis. Below we discuss the most common factors.

1. Nutritional laminitisOne of the main causes of laminitis is diet, especially excessive intake of sugars and starches. When a horse ingests too many sugars (fructans), for example by eating a lot of young, sugary grass or too much traditional concentrates, this can lead to a disruption of the intestinal flora. This can cause harmful bacteria to multiply, releasing toxins that enter the bloodstream and cause an inflammatory reaction in the hooves.

Scientific evidence: A study by Pollitt (1999) showed that an excess of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates in the diet, such as starches and sugars, can directly lead to the development of laminitis. The study found that horses fed a diet rich in fructan (a type of sugar commonly found in grass) were much more susceptible to laminitis. Disruption of the microbial balance in the gut by these carbohydrates is considered a major factor in the development of the condition.

Bron: Pollitt, C. C. (1999). “Equine laminitis: Its development coincides with increased sublamellar blood flow.” Equine Veterinary Journal, 31(2), 125-132.

2. Endocrine diseases: Insulin resistance, EMS or PPID (Cushing’s disease)
   Horses with an endocrine disorder, such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) or insulin resistance or PPID, are at increased risk of laminitis. These conditions lead to a disturbed insulin response, which means that glucose cannot be processed efficiently in the body. High insulin levels can in turn cause laminitis. Ponies and horses that are prone to obesity are particularly at risk of EMS, which is directly related to the development of laminitis.

Scientific evidence:
A study by Asplin et al. (2007) showed that insulin resistance is a significant risk factor for laminitis. The study concluded that horses with elevated insulin levels were much more likely to develop laminitis, even when they were not fed a diet high in sugars or starches. The study supports the idea that endocrine disorders can cause laminitis independently of diet.

Bron: Asplin, K. E., Sillence, M. N., Pollitt, C. C., & McGowan, C. M. (2007). “Induction of laminitis by prolonged hyperinsulinaemia in clinically normal ponies.” Veterinary Journal, 174(3), 530-535.

3. Obesity and lack of exercise
   Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing laminitis, especially in ponies and horses that are prone to storing fat in the neck or at the base of the tail. These extra fat deposits can cause hormonal changes that worsen insulin resistance. In addition, lack of exercise prevents excess calories from being burned, which can contribute to obesity and therefore laminitis.

Scientific evidence:
Research by Carter et al. (2010) found that overweight horses with restricted exercise are at increased risk for both insulin resistance and laminitis. The study also found that regular exercise, even in small doses, can improve insulin sensitivity in horses and thus reduce the risk of laminitis.

Bron: Carter, R. A., Treiber, K. H., Geor, R. J., Douglass, L., & Harris, P. A. (2010). “Prediction of laminitis susceptibility in ponies using plasma insulin and leptin concentrations.” Equine Veterinary Journal, 42(2), 118-123.

Symptoms of laminitis

Recognizing the early symptoms of laminitis is essential to enable prompt and effective treatment. Here are some common symptoms:

• Lameness: Horses with laminitis may have difficulty walking normally and may shift their weight to their hind legs to reduce pressure on the forelimbs.

• Heat in the hooves: An increased temperature in the hooves can indicate an inflammation.

• Increased heart rate in the hoof artery: This may indicate a disruption of the blood supply to the hoof.

• Reluctance to move: In severe cases, horses may refuse to move at all due to the intense pain.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent further damage to the hoof structures.

Treatment and prevention

Treatment for laminitis usually involves relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and treating the underlying cause. Here are some treatment options:

1. Dietary adjustment: It is crucial to limit the intake of sugars and starches, especially in horses with insulin resistance or EMS. High-fiber, sugar-free roughage should form the basis of the diet.

2. Exercise and Weight Control: For overweight horses, it is important to improve their body condition through exercise and a controlled diet. Regular, light exercise can also help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of laminitis.

3. Medication: For endocrine disorders, medications such as metformin may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may help to relieve pain and inflammation in the hoof. Pergolide is often prescribed for PPID.

4. Hoof Care: Correct and regular trimming is essential to keep the hoof in a healthy shape and to reduce pressure on the hoof wall. In severe cases, it may be necessary to use special hoof boots to support the hoof bone.