Laminitis is a painful and potentially crippling condition that affects horses’ hooves. It occurs when the sensitive laminae, which connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone, become inflamed and damaged. Laminitis can have various causes, including overeating on lush pasture, obesity, or endocrine disorders. Managing a horse with laminitis requires careful attention to their diet, as feeding the wrong foods can exacerbate the condition. In this article, we will discuss the best horse feed for laminitics to help keep your equine friend healthy and comfortable.
When it comes to feeding a horse with laminitis, the key is to provide a diet that is low in sugars and starches. High levels of sugar and starch can lead to an increase in insulin levels, which can trigger or worsen laminitis in susceptible horses. Therefore, it is important to choose feeds that are low in nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC), which includes sugars and starches. Hay is an essential component of a laminitic’s diet, and it should be the foundation of their feed program.
When selecting hay for a horse with laminitis, it is important to choose high-fiber, low-calorie options. Grass hay, such as timothy or orchard grass, is a good choice for laminitics as it tends to have lower levels of sugars and starches compared to legume hays like alfalfa. Hay should be provided free-choice to the horse, meaning they can eat as much as they want throughout the day.
In addition to hay, it may be necessary to supplement a laminitic horse’s diet with a low-NSC concentrate feed. Some commercially available feeds are specifically formulated for horses with metabolic conditions like laminitis. These feeds are designed to provide the necessary nutrients without the excess sugars and starches that can trigger laminitis. Look for feeds that have a guaranteed analysis of less than 10% NSC to ensure they are suitable for a laminitic horse.
When feeding a concentrate feed to a horse with laminitis, it is important to do so in small, frequent meals. Feeding smaller meals more frequently can help prevent spikes in blood glucose and insulin levels, which can be detrimental to a horse with laminitis. Additionally, it is important to monitor the horse’s body condition and adjust the feeding regimen as needed to prevent weight gain, as obesity can contribute to laminitis.
Supplementation may also be necessary for laminitic horses to ensure they are receiving all the necessary vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to choose supplements that are low in sugars and starches. Some laminitic horses may benefit from additional dietary support, such as magnesium or omega-3 fatty acids, to help manage inflammation and support hoof health.
In addition to managing their diet, it is important to provide a comfortable living environment for a horse with laminitis. Soft, dry footing is essential to reduce pressure on their hooves and prevent further damage. Regular exercise, such as hand walking or turnout in a small paddock, can also help improve circulation and prevent stiffness in the affected hooves.
In conclusion, managing a horse with laminitis requires careful attention to their diet. Feeding a low-NSC diet that is high in fiber and low in calories is essential to managing the condition and preventing further damage to the hooves. Providing high-quality hay, a low-NSC concentrate feed, and appropriate supplements can help support a laminitic horse’s overall health and well-being. By following these guidelines and working closely with your veterinarian and farrier, you can help keep your horse comfortable and happy despite their laminitis diagnosis.
Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to laminitis. Monitoring your horse’s weight, providing regular exercise, and feeding a balanced, low-NSC diet are all essential components of preventing laminitis in susceptible horses. By taking proactive steps to manage your horse’s diet and lifestyle, you can help reduce their risk of developing this painful and debilitating condition.