Understanding What to Do if You Suspect Laminitis

A HØØF Knowledge Hub article

Suspected laminitis should be treated as a clinical emergency. Acting quickly, keeping the horse comfortable and avoiding unnecessary movement are the priorities while waiting for veterinary assessment.

1. Call Your Vet Immediately

If you suspect laminitis, contact your vet straight away.

Do not wait to see whether the horse improves or becomes more comfortable. Early veterinary assessment is important, and suspected laminitis should always be treated seriously.

2. Provide Temporary Frog Support

While waiting for your vet, simple temporary support can be provided using two rolled tail bandages, one for each affected foot.

Place each rolled bandage lengthways beneath the frog and gently secure it to the foot with cohesive veterinary bandage.

The aim is simply to provide temporary support and comfort until professional assessment — not to treat or correct the foot.

3. Keep the Horse Still

Place the horse in a stable or other small, safe area with a deep, supportive bed.

Bring food and water within easy reach and minimise unnecessary movement.

If the horse is reluctant to move, do not force it to walk to a stable. Contact your vet and follow their advice.

HØØF Top Tip

If the horse is too uncomfortable or reluctant to move, take the bed to the horse rather than the horse to the bed.

A thick layer of shavings or other suitable bedding can be placed around and beneath the feet where the horse is standing, providing a softer, more supportive surface while you wait for veterinary advice.

4. What NOT to Do

While waiting for your vet:

·       Do not remove the shoes if the horse is shod.

·       Do not trim or alter the feet.

·       Do not walk the horse around to “keep it moving.”

·       Do not trot the horse up to assess soundness.

·       Do not force a reluctant horse to move.

5. Then Hand Over to the Professionals

Once your vet has been contacted and the horse is safely supported and comfortable, your immediate job is done.

From this point, assessment and management should be led by your vet working alongside your farrier.

Laminitis can vary considerably between horses, and appropriate treatment and hoof management will depend upon the individual case.

Call the vet. Support the feet. Minimise movement. Then let your vet and farrier take it from there.

HØØF Knowledge Hub | HKH022

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