Summer Grazing Risks: Laminitis and Weight Management

Summer grazing can be a welcome change for horses, offering increased turnout and improved forage availability. However, richer grass and longer grazing hours can also increase the risk of weight gain and laminitis, particularly in certain horses and ponies.

Understanding the risks and managing grazing carefully can help keep your horse healthy throughout the summer months.

Why Summer Grass Can Be a Problem

Summer grass often contains:

• Higher levels of sugars and starches

• Rapidly growing, nutrient-dense forage

• Increased availability due to longer daylight hours

These factors can overwhelm the horse’s metabolic system, especially in animals that are prone to weight gain.

What Is Laminitis?

Laminitis is a painful and potentially serious condition affecting the tissues that support the pedal bone within the hoof. It can be triggered by excess sugar intake, leading to inflammation and damage within the hoof.

Early recognition and prevention are essential.

Horses at Higher Risk

Some horses are more susceptible to laminitis, including:

• Native breeds and ponies

• Overweight horses

• Horses with a history of laminitis

• Horses with metabolic conditions such as EMS or PPID

• Horses on restricted exercise due to injury

These horses require particularly careful management during summer months.

Signs to Watch For

Early signs of laminitis can be subtle. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Reluctance to move or shortened strides

• Shifting weight between feet

• Increased digital pulses

• Warmth in the hooves

• Sudden changes in attitude or comfort

Prompt action can significantly improve outcomes.

Managing Weight During Summer Grazing

Effective weight management may include:

• Gradual introduction to richer grazing

• Restricted turnout or track systems

• Use of grazing muzzles where appropriate

• Regular body condition scoring

• Maintaining consistent exercise when possible

Avoid sudden changes in grazing access.

The Importance of Monitoring

Regular monitoring helps identify issues early:

• Check body condition every few weeks

• Monitor hoof health and comfort

• Observe behaviour and willingness to move

Your vet can help assess risk and provide tailored advice.

When Should You Speak to Your Vet?

Contact your vet if:

• Your horse is gaining weight rapidly

• You are concerned about laminitis risk

• Your horse shows any signs of foot discomfort

• You would like advice on safe grazing management

Early intervention can prevent serious complications.

In Summary

Summer grazing offers many benefits, but it also brings increased risks of weight gain and laminitis. Careful management, gradual changes, and close monitoring are key to keeping your horse healthy.

If you are concerned about your horse’s weight or laminitis risk, please contact the practice for advice or an assessment.