As a horse owner, it’s essential to pay attention to what your four-legged friend eats. If your horse has been diagnosed with laminitis, you need to be extra careful with their diet. Do you know what you should feed a horse with laminitis? If not, this article is for you!
A horse with laminitis requires a specific type of diet to manage their condition. Not all horses with laminitis can eat the same thing, and their dietary needs may vary depending on their severity and specific factors like age and weight.
So, what do you feed a horse with laminitis? It’s a valid question, and the answer may not be as simple as you think. You may not even know the dos and don’ts of feeding a horse with laminitis. In this guide, we’ll show you the ideal food options to help control and prevent the symptoms of laminitis in horses.
Understanding Laminitis in Horses
Laminitis is a serious condition that affects the feet of horses. It is also commonly referred to as founder and is caused by inflammation in the laminae, the tissue that connects the hoof to the bone inside the foot. This inflammation can cause the laminae to weaken and separate, which can lead to pain and lameness.
Laminitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, improper nutrition, overeating grains, infections, and hormonal imbalances. When a horse has laminitis, it is important to address the underlying cause in order to effectively manage the condition.
- Obesity – if the horse is overweight, reducing their body weight should be a priority, as excess weight places additional strain on the feet, which can exacerbate the condition. It is best to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a safe and effective weight loss plan for the horse.
- Improper nutrition – feeding the horse a balanced diet with the appropriate levels of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals is important for overall health and for managing laminitis. A diet that is high in carbohydrates, such as grain, should be avoided, as this can trigger laminitis.
- Infections – if the laminitis is caused by an infection, such as a hoof abscess, it is important to treat the infection promptly to prevent further damage to the feet. A veterinarian should be consulted for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Hormonal imbalances – certain hormonal imbalances, such as insulin resistance, can cause laminitis. In these cases, managing the underlying hormonal condition is important for controlling the laminitis.
It is also important to manage the horse’s environment and exercise routine to prevent further damage to the feet. Providing soft, supportive bedding and limiting the horse’s movement can help reduce the stress on the feet. Additionally, regular exercise and movement can help improve blood flow to the feet and promote healing.
| Foods to Avoid | Foods to Include |
|---|---|
| Grains | Hay (low in sugar and starch) |
| Sweet feed | Grass (low in sugar) |
| Corn | Vegetables (such as carrots and beets) |
| Molasses | Supplements (such as vitamin E and selenium) |
When choosing what to feed a horse with laminitis, it is important to focus on low-sugar, low-starch options, such as hay, grass, and vegetables. Avoiding grains, sweet feed, corn, and molasses can also help prevent exacerbating the condition. Working with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist can help ensure that the horse is receiving a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs while managing their laminitis.
Feeding Practices for Horses with Laminitis
Feeding horses with laminitis can be quite tricky, but with proper management, it can allow the horse to fully recover from the ailment. Here are some feeding practices that you can follow to help your horse:
- Minimize non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) intake. Horses with laminitis should only consume up to 10% Non-structural Carbohydrates from their total daily intake. NSC-rich feeds like grains, sweet feeds, and alfalfas should be avoided. Instead, fibrous feeds like grass hays, hay cubes, and harvested and dried forages should be given to the horse.
- Regular feeding schedule. Horses need a regular feeding schedule to help them maintain a consistent sugar level in their bloodstream. They have a high metabolic rate, and feeding them small but frequent meals with low starch and sugar content keeps their insulin levels steady, hence reducing the risk of laminitis.
- Feed supplements. Supplements like biotin, which is essential in the development of strong and healthy hooves, Vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help manage laminitis symptoms.
Preventing Overfeeding
The goal of feeding a horse with laminitis revolves around preventing overfeeding. Overfeeding leads to an excessive supply of carbohydrates in the horse’s digestive system, and the excess sugar content circulating throughout their bloodstream. This causes the horse’s metabolism to work overtime, hence increasing the risk of insulin resistance, resulting in the occurrence of laminitis.
Make sure that you’re feeding your horse correctly, giving them only the necessary nutrients in the right amount to help regulate their sugar level. Overfeeding is life-threating in horses with laminitis, and it’s one of the leading causes of relapse.
Recommended Feeding Plan
| Feeds | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Grass Hay or Hay cubes | up to 2% of horse’s body weight or as prescribed by the veterinarian | 3-4 meals per day, evenly spaced out |
| Byproduct feeds such as pulp, beet, and hulls | up to 10% of horse’s daily intake | |
| Supplements | As prescribed by the veterinarian | In regular feeding intervals or as needed |
Horses with laminitis have special dietary needs, and it’s essential to follow the right feeding practices to ensure their full recovery. For best results, it’s best to work with a licensed veterinarian and design a customized feeding plan that caters to your horse’s unique nutritional needs.
Choosing the Right Feed for Horses with Laminitis
Laminitis is a serious condition that affects horses’ hooves. The inflammation of the laminae in the hoof can cause severe pain and even result in lameness. The correct diet for a horse with laminitis is crucial in managing this condition. Here are some tips for choosing the right feed:
- Low Sugar and Starch: Horses with laminitis should not consume feeds that are high in sugar and starch. This is because these feeds can cause fluctuations in insulin levels, which can be harmful to horses with laminitis. Look for feeds that are low in Non-Structural Carbohydrates (NSC) such as oats, corn, and molasses. Instead, opt for feeds that contain high-quality fiber sources like hay or beet pulp.
- A Balanced Diet: Horses with laminitis require a well-balanced diet to maintain their health. Ensure that their diet includes all the essential nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. You can consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a balanced diet for your horse.
- Supplements: There are several supplements available in the market that claim to help horses with laminitis. However, not all supplements are created equal, and some may even be harmful. Consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your horse’s diet.
Feeding horses with laminitis appropriately can help manage this condition and improve their quality of life. A well-planned diet with the right balance of nutrients is crucial in preventing laminitis from recurring.
Managing the Diet of Horses Prone to Laminitis
When it comes to managing the diet of horses with laminitis, it’s important to take a holistic approach. This means focusing on both what the horse eats and how much they eat, as well as other factors that can contribute to laminitis, such as exercise and stress. Below are some key strategies for managing the diet of horses prone to laminitis.
- Feed low-starch, low-sugar hay. One of the most important dietary changes for horses with laminitis is to reduce the amount of starches and sugars in their diet. This means feeding hay that is low in non-structural carbohydrates (NSC), typically below 10%. Options include hay made from mature grasses, such as timothy or orchardgrass, or hay that has been soaked to reduce its sugar content.
- Limit high-carbohydrate feed. In addition to hay, horses with laminitis generally need to have their grain or concentrate feed reduced or eliminated. If a horse needs additional calories, options include feeding fat sources such as vegetable oil or using a low-carbohydrate commercial feed formulated for horses with metabolic issues.
- Monitor grazing. For horses that are turned out on pasture, it’s important to monitor their grazing to ensure they are not consuming too much sugar and starch. Some strategies include using a grazing muzzle or limiting pasture time during high-sugar periods, such as in the early morning hours or after a rainfall.
While managing the diet is crucial for horses with laminitis, it’s important to also consider other factors that can contribute to laminitis, such as exercise and stress. Providing a low-stress environment and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of laminitis, as can working with a veterinarian and farrier to identify and address any underlying medical or conformational issues that may be contributing to the horse’s laminitis.
Supplements for Horses with Laminitis
In addition to managing the horse’s diet, there are a variety of supplements that may be beneficial for horses with laminitis. However, it’s important to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to determine which supplements are appropriate for each individual horse, as some may interact with medications or have unintended side effects.
- Magnesium. Magnesium is a mineral that can help improve insulin sensitivity in horses, making them less prone to developing laminitis. However, not all horses with laminitis will benefit from magnesium supplementation, and excessive magnesium intake can lead to problems such as diarrhea and lethargy.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in flaxseed and fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in horses with laminitis. However, not all horses will respond positively to omega-3 supplementation, and excessive intake can lead to other health issues such as decreased blood clotting ability.
Example Diet Plan for a Horse with Laminitis
A sample diet plan for a horse with laminitis might look something like this:
| Meal | Feed Amount |
|---|---|
| Morning | 1/2 cup low-carbohydrate commercial feed 1/2 cup beet pulp 2 oz ground flaxseed Free-choice low-NSC hay 1 scoop magnesium supplement (if needed) |
| Lunch | Free-choice low-NSC hay |
| Afternoon/Evening | Free-choice low-NSC hay 1 scoop omega-3 supplement (if needed) |
| Night | Free-choice low-NSC hay 1 scoop magnesium supplement (if needed) |
Of course, every horse’s diet will be different depending on their individual needs, and it’s important to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to develop a diet plan that is appropriate for each horse.
Incorporating Supplements into the Diet of Horses with Laminitis
Supplements can play a vital role in the management of a horse’s diet after a laminitis diagnosis. These supplements can provide essential nutrients and minerals that may be missing in the hay and pasture or help manage other health conditions that could exacerbate the development of this disease. Below are some supplements that have been shown to be beneficial for horses with laminitis.
- Magnesium: Low magnesium levels have been linked to laminitis, so supplementing with magnesium can be helpful. Dosages between 5-10g per day for an average-sized horse are recommended.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These anti-inflammatory fats can be helpful in managing the inflammation associated with laminitis. Often, a horse’s hay and pasture do not provide enough omega-3s, so supplementing with omega-3-rich flaxseed or fish oil can be beneficial.
- Joint supplements: Some horses with laminitis experience joint inflammation, which can be managed with supplements containing chondroitin, glucosamine, or hyaluronic acid. These supplements also promote joint health and mobility, which can improve a horse’s overall comfort level.
It’s essential to speak with a veterinarian before adding any new supplements to a horse’s diet. They can provide dosage recommendations and suggest supplements tailored to the horse’s specific needs and condition.
Additionally, it is essential to remember that supplements cannot solve every problem related to laminitis. A balanced diet with the right amount of hay and pasture is still the foundation of any horse’s diet, even one with laminitis. When used correctly, supplements can be a helpful tool in managing the symptoms of this condition.
Horse owners should also be aware of any potential risks of over-supplementing, as too much of a good thing can have adverse effects. It’s best to work with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to create a balanced and appropriate supplement plan for the horse.
| Supplement name | Recommended dosage | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium | 5-10g per day for an average-sized horse | Improves circulation and muscle function; helps prevent further inflammation or other health issues. |
| Omega-3 fatty acids (flaxseed or fish oil) | 1/2 to 1 cup per day for a mature horse | Help reduce inflammation, improve coat quality, and enhance immune function |
| Joint supplements (chondroitin, glucosamine, or hyaluronic acid) | Varies based on the type of supplement. Consult a veterinarian. | Promotes joint health and mobility, reduces inflammation and prevents further deterioration. |
Balancing Nutritional Needs of Horses with Laminitis
Horses with laminitis have special nutritional needs that must be carefully balanced to promote healing and prevent further damage. Here are some tips for feeding a horse with laminitis:
- Limit or eliminate grain and sugary feeds. These can cause inflammation and worsen laminitis symptoms. Instead, focus on feeding high-quality hay and pasture.
- Provide low-carbohydrate feeds. Choose feeds that are specifically designed for horses with metabolic issues, such as those with added fat and fiber but minimal starch and sugar.
- Supplement with essential nutrients. Horses with laminitis may have nutrient deficiencies due to decreased feed intake, so it’s important to provide a balanced vitamin and mineral supplement.
In addition to these feeding guidelines, it’s important to work closely with a veterinarian and equine nutritionist to develop an individualized feeding plan that meets your horse’s specific needs. Regular monitoring of your horse’s weight, body condition, and response to treatment is also crucial.
Here is a sample table of different types of feeds and their carbohydrate content:
| Feed | Carbohydrate Content |
|---|---|
| Alfalfa hay | 8% |
| Grass hay | 10-16% |
| Alfalfa cubes | 9% |
| Beet pulp | 7% |
| Oat hay | 20% |
| Stabilized rice bran | 20% |
Remember, every horse is unique, so be sure to consult with your veterinarian and equine nutritionist to create the best feeding plan for your horse with laminitis. By balancing your horse’s nutritional needs, you can help promote healing and improve their quality of life.
Ensuring Adequate Hydration for Horses with Laminitis
In order to manage laminitis, it is important to ensure your horse is adequately hydrated. Dehydration can cause further complications and slow the healing process. Here are a few tips to make sure your horse is properly hydrated:
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times
- Add some electrolytes to their water or feed to encourage them to drink more
- Monitor their water intake and make sure they are drinking enough
Some horses will not drink enough water on their own, so it is important to encourage them to do so. Adding some flavoring to their water, like apple juice or peppermint oil, can sometimes help. Another option is to soak their hay or feed, which will not only add water to their diet but also make it easier for them to eat.
Here is a table of recommended daily water intake for horses based on their weight:
| Horse Weight | Minimum Daily Water Intake |
|---|---|
| Up to 500kg | 25-30 liters |
| 500-600kg | 30-40 liters |
| Over 600kg | 40-50 liters |
It is important to note that these are just general guidelines and your horse may require more or less water depending on their activity level, environment, and overall health.
FAQs: What do you feed a horse with laminitis?
1. What foods should be avoided in a horse with laminitis?
Avoid feeding your horse with high-carbohydrate feeds such as grains and sweet feeds as these can cause an increase in insulin levels which in turn will cause inflammation and other health problems. Grass can also be high in sugar content which can cause laminitis.
2. What kind of hay should be fed to a horse with laminitis?
Feeding a horse with hay that is low in carbohydrates, like Timothy hay or Bermuda grass hay, is ideal. You can also opt for soaking the hay in lukewarm water to reduce sugar content.
3. Is feeding a horse alfalfa hay safe for laminitis?
It is not recommended to feed alfalfa hay to a horse with laminitis as it has high protein and calcium content.
4. Can I feed my horse with beet pulp?
Yes, beet pulp is a good option for laminitis as it has low sugar content and high fiber content. Soaking it in water can also reduce sugar levels.
5. Should I give my horse any supplements?
Consult with your veterinarian first, but generally, magnesium supplements may help prevent laminitis. Also, feeding your horse with a balanced diet of vitamins and minerals can be beneficial.
6. Can I still give my horse treats?
It is best to avoid giving your horse treats as most of them have high sugar content. However, you may opt for giving your horse carrots or apples in moderation.
7. Can I feed my horse with grass pasture?
It depends on the sugar content and level of maturity of the grass. You may consult with your veterinarian to help you determine the safe levels of grazing.
Closing Thoughts
Feeding a horse with laminitis properly can be a challenging task, but it is essential to help manage the condition and prevent further complications. A balanced diet of low-carbohydrate hay, like Timothy hay and Bermuda grass hay, soaked beet pulp, and healthy supplements can be beneficial to your horse’s health. Remember to refrain from feeding your horse grains and sweet feeds that can be harmful to the horse’s health. Thanks for reading, and we hope you find this article helpful. Please visit us again for more articles.