**Checking For Laminitis in Horses: An Instructional Guide**

 

As horse owners and caretakers, it is essential to be aware of the rising incidence of laminitis, particularly in regions with favourable grass-growing climates like New Zealand. This guide aims to provide clear instructions on how to recognise and manage this serious condition effectively.

 

### Understanding Laminitis

 

Laminitis is a painful and often preventable condition affecting horses. It is a lot like diabetes in humans and it often happens when horses graze on grass for extended periods, and it’s important to note that it doesn't need to be lush pasture for this to happen. 

 

### Steps for Prevention and Monitoring

 

To safeguard your horse from laminitis, follow these steps:

 

1. **Develop a Grass Management Plan:**

   - Create a system to monitor and manage the amount of time your horse spends grazing such as by break feeding or track grazing and try to feed more drier brown grasses such as hay over grass, as it's much lower in sugar.

   

2. **Be Alert for Signs of Laminitis:**

   Regularly check your horse for the following indicators:

 

   - **Lameness:** Look for any signs of foot tenderness or lameness. If you notice these symptoms, take immediate action.

   

   - **Hoof Temperature:** 

     - Use an infrared thermometer to check your horse’s hoof temperature.

     - If the temperature exceeds 91.4°F (33°C) for more than a few hours, take immediate action. 

   

   - **Pulse Check:** 

     - Feel for a bounding pulse at the back of your horse’s leg using two fingers, avoiding your thumb for an accurate reading.

 

3. **Take Immediate Action:**

   - If you observe elevated hoof temperature or a bounding pulse, remove your horse from all grass and any forage. This is critical in preventing the condition from worsening, such as progressing to founder.

 

4. **Consult a Veterinarian:**

   - If you suspect laminitis or observe concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian for guidance. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome for your horse.

 

### Conclusion

 

By implementing a proactive approach to monitoring and managing your horse’s grazing habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of laminitis. Your involvement is vital to the well-being of your equine companion. Stay vigilant, and act swiftly, and together we can protect our horses from this painful condition.

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Check out this page for help with recovery from laminitis: https://www.naturalhorse.co.nz/laminitis-recovery-info