Educational Overview
What is laminitis?
Laminitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the laminae—the sensitive tissues that suspend the coffin bone (P3) within the hoof capsule.
What is founder?
Founder refers to the structural failure that can follow laminitis, where the coffin bone rotates and/or sinks within the hoof.
Laminitis = inflammation; Founder = mechanical damage.
Why it’s serious
-
Causes severe pain and lameness
-
Can become chronic or life-threatening
-
Long-term hoof damage may occur if not treated early
Common causes / triggers
-
Dietary overload: lush pasture, high sugar/starch feeds
-
Endocrine disease: EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome), PPID/Cushing’s
-
Toxins & illness: colic, retained placenta, severe infections, tetanus vaccine
-
Mechanical overload: excessive concussion, supporting-limb laminitis
-
Stress & inflammation: systemic illness
Early warning signs
-
Reluctance to move, stiff or short strides
-
“Rocked-back” stance (weight shifted to heels)
-
Warm hooves, strong digital pulse
-
Pain on turning or hard ground
Advanced signs (founder)
-
Severe lameness
-
Hoof wall distortion or rings
-
Sole bruising or abscesses
-
Rotation or sinking seen on X-ray
Diagnosis
-
Clinical exam (lameness, digital pulse)
-
Hoof testing
-
Radiographs (to assess rotation/sinking)
-
Blood tests for metabolic disease
Immediate management
-
Strict rest on deep, soft bedding
-
Cryotherapy (ice therapy) in early stages
-
Pain relief and anti-inflammatories
-
Dietary restriction (low NSC feeds only)
-
Hoof support (pads, boots, corrective trimming)
Long-term management
Prevention strategies
-
Limit lush pasture access (especially spring/autumn)
-
Use grazing muzzles if needed
-
Low sugar/starch diet
-
Regular farrier care
-
Screen at-risk horses for metabolic disease
SET OF
Educational Purposes Only
Natural Pet Botanicals products are not intended to replace veterinary care or prescribed treatments. Always consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and medical advice.
Formulated with plant and mineral-based ingredients, traditionally referenced for their role in supporting overall balance and general wellbeing.
These formulations are designed to assist the body’s natural processes and support resilience during times of environmental or physiological stress.
Set Includes
LaminaRescue 51-1 30ml
LaminaEase Blend 51-2 50ml
Magnesium & Potassium 17-2 200g powder
Contains:
Formula 1.
Wild Rosemary (Ledum)
Nux Vomica,
Leopard’s Bane (Arnica)
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.
Formula 2.
Copper mineral (Cuprum Met)
Milk Acid (Lactic Acid)
Magnesia Phosphate
Silicate of Lime (Calcarea Fluorica)
Oak (Rhus Tox)
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.
3. Magnesium & Potassium Powder
Need more advice or have more questions? Contact us for a FREE consultation with one of our fully qualified practitioners.
These statements are for general wellbeing and educational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always seek veterinary or professional advice for specific health concerns.
DISCLAIMER
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your health care practitioners. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.
