Laminitis in horses is a painful and potentially life-threatening condition in which the lamellae supporting the coffin bone become damaged and can separate from the hoof wall. It can have several causes, including insulin dysregulation, severe illness, and excessive weight bearing on a limb due to an injury to the opposite leg. Recognizing subtle signs such as a strong digital pulse, sustained heat in the hooves, a shortened stride, or reluctance to move can help owners seek veterinary care early. Understanding your horse’s risk factors and working with your veterinarian on prevention and management can help protect his hoof health.

About the Expert:

Picture of Teresa Burns, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM

Teresa Burns, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM

Teresa Burns, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, is an equine internal medicine specialist and professor of equine clinical sciences and research at The Ohio State University (OSU) College of Veterinary Medicine, in Columbus. She received her DVM degree from Iowa State University, in Ames, and completed her internship, residency, and PhD training at OSU. Burns’ research focuses on equine endocrinology and laminitis, and her clinical interests include equine endocrinology and neonatology.