Laminitis - Donkey

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Introduction

Donkey hoof structure

• More sensitive to wet conditions than horses (see Laminae Disorders in horses), they absorb moisture much more readily

Description

This is a common, yet often unrecognised problem, and often is not noticed by the donkey owner, especially mild, acute, frequently recurring episodes.

Predisposing factors:

• Pastures rich in soluble carbohydrate/fructans
• Overweight donkey
• Excessive feed amount, especially cereal type mixtures
• Trauma (poor/not appropriate farriery, overgrown hooves, lameness in contralateral limb)
• Systemic illness (eg. Pituitary pars intermedia disorder, toxaemia)

Diagnosis

Clinical Signs

• Reluctance to move, preference for soft surfaces, recumbency
• Foot pain, particularly middle coronary band area
• Pulse pressure and volume is increased in the digital arteries
• Shifting weight, frequent lifting of the front feet
• Weight-bearing on the heels
• Feet landing heel first
• Increased pulse and respiratory rate due to pain

Laminitis should be treated as an emergency. Any combination of feet may be affected and all should be assessed. Full clinical examination should be performed.

Treatment

• Remove inciting cause and treat precipitating condition
• Analgesia - i.v. first, continue by mouth e.g. phenylbutazone

References

• The Professional Handbook of the Donkey,