Inflammatory status of the hoof wall, is due to histamine produced by some rumen bacteria under low pH
- The etiology of laminitis is multi-faceted, but is generally the result of prolonged exposure to low rumen pH that is caused by nutritional factors that lead to acidosis (Huxley J.N. 2013), (Lean I.J. et al., 2013).
- The initial activation of laminitis starts with the low rumen pH, lysis or death of gram-negative bacteria lead to the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a cell wall component which is a very potent stimulator of inflammation.
- Histamine is also produced by some rumen bacteria under low pH, and by an animal under stress. Histamine is also an inflammatory compound. Due to repeated acid insults on the rumen and the hindgut wall, the epithelial barrier is disrupted and these inflammatory molecules can be transferred to the bloodstream.
- Histamine production leads to an inflammatory condition in the animal that can weaken the laminar structure in the hoof wall, thus leading to laminitis.
Poor locomotion is a visible signal of lameness
FAQ About Laminitis
Laminitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the laminar structures of the hoof wall. It is often triggered by metabolic disturbances, particularly those related to rumen acidosis, and can lead to lameness and significant discomfort in cattle and other ruminants.
The primary cause is prolonged exposure to low rumen pH, often due to high-starch or low-fiber diets. This leads to the death of gram-negative bacteria and the release of endotoxins like lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which trigger systemic inflammation. Histamine, produced by rumen microbes and the animal under stress, also contributes to the weakening of the hoof structure.
Common signs include:
- Lameness or reluctance to walk
- Arched back or abnormal posture
- Tenderness in the hooves
- Red or yellow discoloration in the sole horn
- Preference for lying down and difficulty rising
Prevention strategies include:
- Maintaining a balanced diet with adequate fiber
- Avoiding sudden dietary changes
- Regular hoof trimming (2–3 times per year)
- Ensuring proper housing and hygiene
- Monitoring rumen pH and animal behavior