This week, we explore some key contributors to laminitis, other than grass, that every horse owner should be aware of.

In the last episode, we discussed sugar-induced laminitis and why spring grass can be a big concern for many horse owners. However, sugar is not the only factor that can trigger laminitis, and owners need to understand the broader range of potential causes.

A Whole-Body Issue

Laminitis is inflammation of the lamina. It is often a reflection of systemic inflammation and not just a foot problem. Inflammation, especially when chronic, can damage tissues and affect many parts of the body before appearing in the hooves. Laminitis is often a symptom of deeper, unresolved health issues.

Stress and Emotional Triggers

Stress is the primary cause of inflammation in horses. Emotional stress resulting from the loss of a pasture mate, a new environment, or changes in the herd can lead to laminitic episodes. Chronic stress raises cortisol, increases blood sugar, and suppresses the immune system, which is particularly dangerous for insulin-resistant horses. Supporting horses through emotional changes and acknowledging their grief is essential, as horses feel things deeply, and unaddressed stress can lead to significant health issues.

The Role of Gut Toxicity

Gut health links closely to laminitis, especially in horses with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. A compromised gut, often caused by poor diet or chronic inflammation, can lead to a leaky gut, which allows toxins to enter the bloodstream, creating systemic inflammation. Removing inflammatory ingredients such as processed feeds, preservatives, and vegetable oils from the diet can significantly improve hoof health. Owners should look for food sensitivities, even to common ingredients like flax, and consider rotating feeds and supplements to reduce the risk of intolerance.

Hidden Causes in the Diet 

Some horses are more sensitive to ingredients than others. So, an ingredient that is safe for most horses might be causing your horse inflammation. If your horse is not improving despite a low-sugar diet, look at everything it eats. Supplements cannot offset food intolerances. So, if your horse is reacting to something in its diet, the only solution is to remove that item.

Medication, Liver Load, and Toxicity

Long-term use of medications, exposure to chemicals, commercial feeds, and over-vaccination can compromise liver function. When the liver becomes overwhelmed, toxins tend to build up, and the immune system responds with inflammation. To reduce the inflammation, focus on supporting detoxification and reducing the overall toxic load. Chronic inflammation can lead to further issues like Cushing’s disease if not addressed early.

Vaccination Considerations

Vaccines can trigger inflammatory responses, especially in horses already dealing with laminitis or metabolic challenges. Inflammation from vaccines may not appear immediately, but it can cause issues in the weeks that follow. For sensitive horses, particularly those with compromised immune systems or high toxicity levels, vaccinations should be approached with care. Work with your vet to determine what is necessary, how to support your horse through the process, and when it might be best to delay or avoid certain vaccines.

Final Thought

If your horse is struggling with chronic laminitis and nothing seems to help, it may be time to look beyond sugar and hoof care. Evaluate every part of its lifestyle, including emotional health, gut health, diet, medications, and vaccination history. 

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