The initial signs of Laminitis can be elusive. Increased heat in the hooves, lameness and a bounding digital pulse are the most recognizable signs. Pain in the toe region when pressure is applied with hoof testers can signal a laminitic attack. Advanced Laminitis will be visibly noted in the blatant "founder stance" of the horse. As the horse tries to relieve some of the pain of the forefeet it will assume a stance of leaning backwards with its hind quarters tucked under and the forequarters 
stretched out in front. 

When forced to walk, the horse will be slow and extremely reluctant to put weight on its front hooves much as if he/she were "walking on eggshells".

Signs of chronic laminitis include "founder rings" on hoof wall, bruised soles, separated white line with blood pockets or abscesses, dropped soles, a thick, hard, cresty neck and dished hooves. 

As the insult continues, the affected hooves will become mis-shapened. If the P3 does not penetrate the sole of the hoof, the sole will thicken and become convex rather than concave as a normal foot. If the P3 does penetrate the sole it will be visible just in front of the apex of the frog to a varying degree.