Laminitis in its simplest sense is inflammation of the laminae (the soft tissue that attaches the pedal bone to the inner hoof wall) causing pain and lameness.

• lameness
• laminitis
• Recovery from surgery
• Tying Up
• Colic
• Viruses

 Laminitis is likely to be the result of a complex cascade of events which may involve multiple systems within the body.

• Try to provide ad-lib hay/ haylage in the field as well as the stable if grazing is limited or of poor quality
• Haylage is not automatically higher in energy (calories), protein or sugar as commonly thought. The only way to assess the nutritional value of any forage is to have it analysed
• Forage provides the largest source of calories in the horse's diet - look for hay/ forage replacers for those no longer able to graze or chew long fibre. You can find out more about feeding hay replacers here

• Ensure muzzles fit correctly and check for signs of rubbing or discomfort regularly
• Introduce your horse/ pony to wearing a muzzle gradually and ensure he is happy to graze and drink before leaving him unsupervised
• Keep an eye on grass length - grass that is too long or too short may be completely inaccessible
• Monitor herd behaviour to ensure those wearing muzzles are not bullied and are allowed access to water