Signs Of Laminitis In Ponies

To recognize and treat laminitis in a horse start by looking out for the initial signs of laminitis which include loss of appetite and pain while walking.

Signs of laminitis in ponies.

Lameness especially when a horse is turning in circles. A horse seems tender footed and doesn t want to bear complete weight on a hoof. Pain in the toe region when pressure is applied with hoof testers. Laminitis is an inflammatory condition of the laminae within a horse s feet the tissues that attach the pedal bone to the hoof wall inside the hoof capsule.

It s also important to note that many of these signs that we see can be due to other problems such as a hoof abscess or tying up. Additionally check to see if your horse has flaky hooves or odd shaped rings on them. The first obvious sign of laminitis is lameness. Heat in the feet.

Shifting lameness when standing. Increased digital pulse in the feet most easily palpable over either sesamoid bone at the level of the fetlock. Signs of acute laminitis include the following. You might also see your horse pushing its feet forward to relieve the pain while standing.

If you notice any one of these signs get in touch with your vet online and we can help you to triage your horse with the care your horse or pony needs immediately. But first we need to recognise the signs of laminitis.