Is Laminitis in Horses Contagious?

Laminitis is a common, extremely painful and frequently recurrent condition in horses, ponies and donkeys. It has significant welfare implications for owners. This condition affects the tissues (laminae) bonding the hoof wall to pedal bone in the hoof.

Can you ride a horse with laminitis?

DON'T: Ride yet!

It might be tempting, especially if your horse “seems” okay, but riding a post-laminitic horse is definitely ill-advised in the early months. ... Above all, make sure the horse is off painkillers and you have your veterinarian's approval before that first ride.

How is laminitis transmitted?

Although laminitis occurs in the feet, the underlying cause is often a disturbance elsewhere in the horse's body. The causes vary and may include the following: Digestive upsets due to grain overload (such as excess grain, fruit or snacks) or abrupt changes in diet.

Robert Thorne

Robert Thorne

Automotive & Future Transportation Editor

Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.