What can cause laminitis after a sudden increase in spring grass? | arlo.® Atlas

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Overview

A sudden increase in spring grass can contribute to laminitis because the grass is often rich in sugars, especially after cold nights and sunny days. That change can upset how the hindgut works and may increase the risk in horses that are already prone to it. It doesn't mean every horse on spring grass will develop laminitis, but it does mean a quick grass change needs careful management.

There can be several possible reasons behind the problem, including too much lush grazing, a horse's body condition, recent changes in turnout, or other health factors that make them more sensitive to grass.

Things To Check

1. Check whether the horse has been moved onto richer grass suddenly, especially after being on poorer grazing, a dry lot, or winter paddock.

2. Look for early signs such as pottery walking, a shorter stride, reluctance to turn, or standing more weight back on the hind feet.

3. Feel for heat in the hooves or an increased digital pulse, if you know how to check it safely.

4. Check whether the horse seems more footsore on hard ground, tight circles, or when first coming out of the stable.

5. Review whether the horse is overweight, cresty, or has a history of laminitis, as these factors can increase risk.

6. Note any recent changes in feeding, turnout time, exercise routine, or access to other high-sugar forage.

7. Look at the pasture itself. Short, stressed, frosty, or very fast-growing spring grass can all be more of a concern than steady grazing.

Common Causes

The most common cause is a rapid increase in sugar intake from spring grass. This is more likely when the grass is young, growing quickly, or has had cold nights followed by bright sunshine.

Overeating rich forage can also play a part, especially if the horse has been restricted and then turned out onto lush pasture without a gradual change.

Some horses are more sensitive because of underlying issues such as being overweight, having a cresty neck, or being prone to insulin dysregulation. In those cases, even a moderate rise in grass intake may be enough to cause trouble.

Less commonly, other illness or stress may make the horse more vulnerable, so it's sensible not to assume grass is the only factor if the picture doesn't fit.

What To Do

Reduce access to lush grass straight away if you think laminitis may be developing. Controlled turnout, a bare paddock, or a grazing muzzle may be part of management, depending on what your horse is used to and what your vet recommends.

Keep the horse on a sensible, low-risk routine and avoid sudden feed changes. Small, steady adjustments are usually better than big switches.

Watch movement, stance, appetite and foot comfort closely over the next few hours and days. If things are getting better or worse, that pattern is useful information.

It can also help to keep turnout times shorter during high-risk grass conditions, and to be extra cautious after frosty nights, bright sunny days, or periods of rapid spring growth.

When To Contact A Vet

If you suspect laminitis, contact your vet promptly, especially if the horse is lame, reluctant to move, or uncomfortable standing. Early assessment matters because laminitis can worsen quickly and is much easier to manage when caught early.

If your horse has a history of laminitis, is overweight, or has a cresty neck, it's worth speaking to your vet sooner rather than waiting to see if it settles.

Products That May Help

Keeping muddy gateways, wet turnout areas and hoof hygiene routines in good order may help support day-to-day management when a horse is at risk of foot problems.

Hoof, Leg & Mud Care

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