Laminitis is a painful hoof disease that can develop quickly and, if left untreated, may lead to permanent damage, chronic lameness, or even the loss of a beloved horse. The good news is that recognizing the early signs and understanding the risk factors can significantly improve your horse’s chances of recovery.
What Is Laminitis?
Laminitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the sensitive laminae inside the hoof. These tissues act like Velcro, securing the coffin bone to the inner hoof wall. When inflammation occurs, the bond between these structures weakens, causing severe pain and potentially allowing the coffin bone to rotate or sink within the hoof capsule. Even mild inflammation can quickly become a serious medical issue…