Hormonal disorders are responsible for up to 90% of laminitis cases 1,2

If your horse is prone to laminitis it’s important to know that although grass can be a trigger, up to 90% of cases are caused by an underlying hormonal disease.1, 2 Equine Cushing’s disease (PPID) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) are the two most common hormone or “endocrine” disorders of horses and ponies. Recent advances in our understanding of laminitis has changed our approach to the diagnosis and treatment of the problem. Despite the common perception that Cushing’s disease is solely a condition of veteran horses and ponies, new data shows that horse and ponies over the age of 10 can be commonly affected.3

Cushing’s disease can be easily diagnosed by a blood test taken by your veterinary surgeon. If your horse or pony is within the 90% that do have an underlying hormonal disease, then it’s essential to reach the correct diagnosis as early as possible in order to be able to treat the laminitis appropriately and reduce the risk of future painful episodes.

Watch expert veterinary surgeons Andy Durham and Cathy McGowan talking about the importance of testing for Cushing’s disease the first time your horse or pony has an episode of laminitis

1. Donaldson MT et al. JAVMA 2004; 224(7): 1123-1127.

2. Karikoski NJ et al. Domestic Animal Endocrinology 2011;41;111-117.

3. Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica. Results of 14251 horses tested for PPID as part of Talk About Laminitis 2012-2013.