Feed manufacturer clocks up 28 published works in 16 months to help combat laminitis
SPILLERS has contributed to 28 laminitis-related publications since the start of 2023, highlighting their commitment to reducing the occurrence of this debilitating condition. These publications include papers, chapters, and abstracts, demonstrating their active role in laminitis research.
Sarah Nelson, Product Manager at Mars Horsecare, home of the SPILLERS brand, emphasised the importance of understanding laminitis risk factors to help reduce cases. “So many horse owners live in dread of laminitis and it is one of the most common reasons they contact the SPILLERS Care-Line for advice, especially in the spring,” she said. “We are on a mission to increase understanding of the risk factors for laminitis so that we can help reduce cases. We are extremely proud of the magnitude and quality of our research, and the fact that we can share some of the outcomes as practical advice for horse owners to help them reduce as many of the risk factors as possible, all year round.”
Laminitis is described as damage to the laminae, causing pain and lameness. The most common form is hyperinsulinemia associated laminitis (HAL), linked with equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) and Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID).
The research, conducted by the SPILLERS brand and the WALTHAM Equine Studies Group with international collaborators, has been presented at key veterinary and equine meetings globally. Five papers were featured in the special endocrinology issue of the Equine Veterinary Journal, with one winning the Peter Rossdale Equine Veterinary Journal (EVJ) Open Award.
Research topics cover endocrinology, water-soluble carbohydrate content, strip grazing, nutrient analysis, and faecal microbial metabolite profiles.
“The more we understand about the predictors of laminitis risk, the better we will be able to reduce incidences of it,” said Sarah. “Our important collaborative research, most recently in relation to endocrinological disorders, is giving us hope for better future management and consequent significant reduction in cases of laminitis. Meanwhile our practical studies such as those on strip grazing and nutrient analysis are providing horse owners with hands-on advice for day-to-day management to help reduce risks.
“Rest assured, we will continue with our work until we can find ways to help keep every horse and pony as safe as possible from this dreaded condition.”