WHAT IS LAMINITIS & FOUNDER?
WHAT IS LAMINITIS &
FOUNDER?
| Simply
speaking, Laminitis is inflammation of the Laminae causing
disruption of the blood flow to the sensitive and insensitive laminae.
Although it can affect all 4 hooves Laminitis usually affects only the
fronts concurrently. The terms "laminitis" and
"founder" are used interchangeably. However, founder
actually refers to a chronic (long-term) condition associated with
rotation of the coffin bone. Whereas, acute laminitis refers to symptoms
associated with a sudden initial attack, including pain and inflammation
of the laminae.
It is caused primarily from overload of grain, rich, lush green grass overload or other digestive-related issues such as abrupt changes in the diet. Severe colic or high fever/illness can cause Laminitis. It can also be caused from mechanical failure due to incorrect trimming or shodding of the hooves, excessive and concussive work or foaling related incidences. "Road Founder" is caused by excessive concussion to the hooves and toxins in the body can cause founder. Black Walnut shavings used in the bedding causes severe laminitis and prolonged use or high dosages of corticosteriods can cause the insult. Because the hoof is an enclosed capsule, the inflammation of the laminae will cause pressure to the tissues and capillaries inside the hoof causing laminar necrosis (death of tissue). This, in turn, results in the rotation and dropping of the P3 within the capsule. More extensive damage can result with complete separation from the hoof capsule if the initial symptoms and causes of the insult are not correctly addressed and treated . This is known as Founder. Founder is the resulting reaction of acute or chronic Laminitis. If the Laminitis condition is recognized and treated in a timely and correct manner, Founder can be prevented. |