75: 3-Step Action Plan for Sugar-induced Laminitis

Today, we are tackling the topic of laminitis and exploring those early-stage situations where your horse begins to show signs of soreness and tenderness.

What we focus on today does not include the more mechanical cases of founder laminitis but rather horses that tend to become sugar-sensitive as the grass begins to turn green in spring.   

Recognizing Sugar Sensitivity in Horses

Some horses become sore or tender as soon as lush spring grass appears. It is often due to sugar sensitivity, and these horses may also be insulin resistant. Insulin resistance can present as swelling in the eyes, sheath, udders, lower limbs, or a general puffiness in the body. It is not always related to obvious hoof problems but often reflects a broader systemic reaction to dietary sugar.

Real-Life Example

At the facility I manage, several horses broke into a lush pasture and soon showed signs of swelling and tenderness despite us urging them to move. Even horses that were not usually at risk began showing symptoms. That highlighted just how quickly sugar overload can tip the balance and why it is crucial to act early.

Step 1: Reduce Sugars

The first step in managing sugar-induced laminitis is reducing sugar intake, especially from grass. Some horses can tolerate limited pasture, while others may not. Create dry lots, use fencing or panels to limit access, and have your hay sugar levels analyzed. Watch out for feeds containing molasses, vegetable oils, preservatives, and other additives that may spike insulin and cause inflammation.

Step 2: Encourage Movement

Exercise is critical. Even when a horse is sore, movement helps lower insulin, burn sugar, and reduce inflammation. It can be as simple as walking, ponying, or hand-jogging. Any movement counts, even 20 extra minutes a few times a week. For horses not currently ridden, gentle groundwork or hand-walking is enough to make a meaningful difference.

Step 3: Add Supportive Footwear When Needed

Hoof boots with padding can help to relieve pain and make movement possible for horses in extreme pain. Movement is essential for healing, so boots are a helpful short-term solution to get your horse comfortable enough to walk. Creative options, like diapers or duct tape, can also work until you find a better solution.

When It Is More Than Just Sugar

If you have reduced sugar and increased movement, and your horse is still inflamed or tender, you may be dealing with more than just dietary sugar overload. Persistent fat pads, a crested neck, and excessive thirst and urination can point to deeper insulin resistance. 

Every Horse is Unique

Horses respond differently to diet and management. While some thrive on pasture combined with regular movement, others may continue to struggle, even when their sugar intake gets reduced and they exercise enough. Factors like breed, history, and individual constitution can influence their response. If you are following best practices but not seeing progress, you may need to explore deeper metabolic factors and consider targeted nutritional and organ support.

Final Thought

The sooner you become aware of early signs of sugar sensitivity and act on them, the better. Reducing sugar, increasing exercise, and providing hoof support when needed can make all the difference. If those measures are not enough, there is still hope, as most horses can regain their balance and comfort with the appropriate nutritional and metabolic support.

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