Laminitis

Laminitis is a disease that affects the feet of ungulates, and is found particularly in horses and cattle. Clinical signs include foot tenderness progressing to inability to walk, increased digital pulses, and increased temperature in the hooves. Severe cases with outwardly visible clinical signs are known by the colloquial term founder, and progression of the disease will lead to perforation of the coffin bone through the sole of the hoof or being unable to stand up, requiring euthanasia.

Causes

Laminitis can be triggered by various events that cause systemic inflammation including colic, high fever, retained placenta in mares, excessive weight bearing on one leg due to injury to another leg, severe colitis, grain overload, and severe endotoxemia. It can also be caused by excessive consumption of grass or grain, and less commonly, excessive drinking of water following exercise.

Pathophysiology

The exact mechanism by which the events trigger laminitis is not yet fully understood, but it is known that it involves a complex cascade of inflammatory and cellular events. The blood flow to the laminae is disrupted, leading to ischemia, followed by reperfusion injury. This results in inflammation and edema of the laminae, leading to pain and lameness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and history, and can be confirmed by radiographs of the feet. The most common clinical sign is lameness, especially when moving in a circle or on a hard surface. Increased digital pulses and increased temperature in the hooves are also common.

Treatment

Treatment is aimed at reducing pain and inflammation, improving hoof mechanics, and treating any underlying disease that may have triggered the laminitis. This may include anti-inflammatory drugs, therapeutic shoeing, and dietary changes. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Prevention

Prevention involves proper diet and exercise, regular hoof care, and prompt treatment of any illness or injury that could potentially trigger laminitis.

See also

• Equine podiatry
• Horse care
• Equine nutrition

Laminitis Resources
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