Spring Grass and Laminitis – Why Horses Are Most at Risk
Spring is one of the most enjoyable times of year for horse owners. Pastures begin to grow again, temperatures rise, and horses can spend more time grazing. Unfortunately, spring grass also brings an increased risk of laminitis, particularly for horses and ponies that gain weight easily.
Understanding why spring grass can be dangerous is an important part of protecting horses from this painful and potentially serious condition.
Why spring grass can trigger laminitis
During spring, grass grows rapidly. At this stage of growth, pasture plants often contain high levels of sugar and non-structural carbohydrates (NSC).
These sugars are produced during photosynthesis and stored in the plant, particularly when:
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days are bright and sunny
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nights are cold
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grass is growing quickly
For horses that are prone to laminitis, consuming large amounts of these sugars can disrupt metabolism and trigger inflammation within the hoof.
Horses most at risk
Some horses and ponies are naturally more prone to laminitis than others. Higher-risk groups include:
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native pony breeds
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good doers that gain weight easily
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overweight horses
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horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
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horses with a previous history of laminitis
For these animals, unrestricted access to lush spring pasture can quickly become a problem they may well need a grazing muzzle.
Signs of increased laminitis risk
Owners should watch for early warning signs when grass growth increases.
These may include:
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weight gain or a cresty neck
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stronger digital pulses in the feet
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reluctance to move on hard ground
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shifting weight between feet
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heat in the hooves
Early management changes can often prevent laminitis from developing.
Managing spring grass safely
Fortunately there are several ways to reduce laminitis risk while still allowing horses to enjoy turnout.
Common management strategies include:
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limiting grazing time
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using track systems or restricted paddocks
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feeding low-sugar forage
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encouraging regular exercise
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using grazing muzzles to reduce grass intake
Many owners find that grazing muzzles are one of the most practical ways to control how much grass a horse consumes while still allowing normal turnout and social interaction.
How grazing muzzles help
A grazing muzzle works by restricting the amount of grass a horse can bite at one time. The horse can still move, drink and graze naturally, but intake is slowed significantly.
Depending on the design, grazing muzzles may reduce grass intake by 50–80%, which can make a major difference for horses at risk of laminitis.
Choosing a well-fitting muzzle that allows comfortable grazing is important for long-term use.
Conclusion
Spring grass is one of the most common triggers for laminitis, particularly in horses and ponies that gain weight easily. By understanding how pasture sugars affect horses and using sensible management strategies, owners can greatly reduce the risk.
Careful grazing management — including the use of grazing muzzles where appropriate — allows horses to continue enjoying turnout while protecting their long-term hoof health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is spring grass higher in sugar?
Yes. Spring grass often contains higher levels of sugars and carbohydrates, particularly during periods of sunny days and cold nights.
When is grass most dangerous for laminitis?
Grass sugar levels can be highest during bright sunny days in spring and autumn, especially after cold nights. Don't hesitate to download the free laminitis tracker