What does founder mean in horses?

Laminitis, also known as founder, is a serious and potentially debilitating condition of the horse's foot. It occurs when the sensitive laminae of the hoof become inflamed and damaged, causing the horse to experience pain and lameness.

Laminitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including obesity, sudden changes in diet, excessive exercise, and certain medications. It is also a common complication of other equine diseases, such as colic and equine metabolic syndrome.

Founder is a serious condition, and early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent permanent damage to the horse's feet. If you suspect your horse may be laminitis, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.

Here are some of the signs and symptoms of laminitis:

* Pain and lameness in one or more feet

* Heat in the hooves

* Digital pulses that are stronger than normal

* Tenderness to the touch on the soles of the feet

* A stance where the horse is leaning back on its heels to take weight off the front feet

* Reluctance to move

If you see any of these signs, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Laminitis can be a serious condition, but with early diagnosis and treatment, most horses can recover fully.