What Causes A Horse To Founder And Can They Recover From It?

Last updated: March 27, 2025

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

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Founder in horses is a devastating condition that can cause severe pain and permanent hoof damage if not caught early. It happens when inflammation weakens the laminae, the tissue that attaches the hoof wall to the coffin bone. Without immediate intervention, the coffin bone may rotate or sink, resulting in irreversible harm.

As a lifelong horse owner with over 25 years of experience managing racehorses, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly founder can progress—and how prompt action can prevent long-term damage. This guide explains what founder is, why it happens, and how to protect your horse from this serious condition. You’ll learn how to recognize early warning signs, implement preventive measures, and explore treatment options if your horse develops founder.

Key Facts About Founder

Founder is a condition that every horse owner should understand to prevent serious hoof damage. Below are key facts that explain what founder is, how it progresses, and the factors that put horses at risk.

• Founder Defined: Founder is a serious hoof condition caused by inflammation in the laminae, leading to the rotation or sinking of the coffin bone. According to research by the University of Minnesota Extension, excessive intake of non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) from grain or pasture is one of the leading causes of laminitis and founder in horses.​ Learn more about controlling NSC levels from University of Minnesota Extension.
• Difference Between Founder and Laminitis: Laminitis is the initial inflammation stage, while founder occurs when prolonged inflammation causes irreversible changes in the hoof.
• High-Risk Triggers: Founder often follows conditions such as overfeeding, exposure to rich pastures, and metabolic disorders like equine metabolic syndrome (EMS), which predispose horses to inflammation and laminitis.

By recognizing these contributing factors, horse owners can be more vigilant in identifying the early warning signs of founder. Let’s look at how to spot the symptoms before irreversible damage occurs.

What Causes Founder in Horses?

To prevent founder, it’s important to understand what causes it. Founder happens when inflammation weakens the laminae, the soft tissues that connect the hoof wall to the coffin bone. Different factors, including diet, metabolic conditions, and environmental stress can trigger this swelling. Knowing these causes helps horse owners take the right steps to protect their horses from this painful condition.

1. Overconsumption of Grain or High-Sugar Pasture

Horses are naturally adapted to graze on forage with low sugar content, but excessive grain or a rich pasture can overload the digestive system. This fermentation produces toxins that enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation in the hooves, leading to laminitis and eventual founder.

According to Purdue University Extension, controlling non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) intake through careful forage management is crucial to preventing laminitis and founder.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Limit pasture time, especially during spring and fall when grass is highest in sugar.
• Use a grazing muzzle to control intake and feed low-NSC hay to reduce sugar levels.

2. Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Insulin Resistance

Horses with EMS exhibit insulin dysregulation, making them prone to chronic inflammation and an increased risk of founder. EMS often occurs in easy-keeper breeds like Ponies, Morgans, and Arabians, which naturally gain weight easily.

I once had a Morgan mare who gained weight rapidly despite limited pasture access. Blood tests confirmed EMS. Her condition stabilized after adjusting her diet to include soaked hay with minimal NSC and incorporating regular exercise. By closely monitoring her diet and maintaining a controlled routine, I was able to prevent founder and keep her comfortable.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Test hay for NSC content and opt for low-sugar varieties.
• Implement a consistent exercise program to help maintain a healthy weight and regulate insulin levels.

For more on EMS and founder prevention, the Merck Veterinary Manual offers insights on managing at-risk horses.

3. Cushing’s Disease (PPID)

Older horses with Cushing’s disease (Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction, or PPID) often exhibit increased levels of cortisol and insulin, which predispose them to laminitis and founder.

The Center for Equine Health at UC Davis explains that managing Cushing’s with medication, such as Prascend®, and making dietary adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of laminitis and founder.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Regularly test ACTH levels in older horses, especially those showing signs of abnormal hair growth or lethargy.
• Manage Cushing’s with prescribed medication and ensure the diet is low in NSCs.

4. Physical Stress and Concussion (Road Founder)

Excessive work on hard surfaces can cause “road founder,” where repetitive concussion damages the laminae. This is particularly common in horses that undergo frequent, high-intensity work without sufficient rest or proper hoof protection.

EDSS Hoofcare explains that prolonged work on firm ground can weaken the hoof’s internal structures, increasing the risk of laminitis.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Use protective hoof boots or shock-absorbing shoes when riding on hard surfaces.
• Provide rest days after intense training to allow the hooves to recover.

5. Dehydration and Poor Circulation

Inadequate hydration reduces blood flow to the hooves, impairing nutrient delivery and increasing the likelihood of inflammation. Horses that do not drink enough water, especially in hot weather or after intense exercise, are at higher risk of laminitis and founder.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Ensure clean, fresh water is available at all times.
• Add electrolytes to the horse’s feed to encourage hydration, especially during warm months or after workouts.

6. Black Walnut Shavings Exposure

Even brief exposure to black walnut shavings—whether through bedding or contaminated areas—can cause laminitis within 24 to 48 hours. This rapid onset underscores the importance of avoiding black walnut bedding entirely.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Never use bedding made from black walnut or any unidentified wood shavings.
• Regularly inspect bedding and stable areas for contamination.

7. Medications and Illness

Certain medications and illnesses can increase the risk of laminitis and founder:

• Steroids: Prolonged use of corticosteroids may trigger laminitis in susceptible horses.
• Post-Colic Surgery: Horses recovering from colic surgery may experience inflammatory responses that lead to laminitis.
• Acute Illnesses: Severe colic, diarrhea, or grain overload can release endotoxins that damage the laminae.

✅ Actionable Tip:

• Discuss the risks of steroid use with your veterinarian and explore safer alternatives when possible.
• Monitor horses closely after surgery or illness, and take preventive steps to reduce the likelihood of laminitis.

Recognizing Early Signs of Founder

Catching founder early can prevent serious hoof damage. I’ve learned that subtle signs often go unnoticed, but paying attention can make a big difference. Knowing these warning signs helps horse owners take action before the condition worsens.

Common Early Signs

• Reluctance to walk, Especially on hard or uneven ground.
• Heat in the Hooves: Often accompanied by a strong digital pulse.
• Shifting Weight: Moving weight back and forth between front and hind legs.
• Tiptoeing Gait: Walking gingerly to avoid putting pressure on the toes.

Recognizing the early signs of laminitis is crucial for preventing permanent hoof damage in horses. According to the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), indicators such as heat in the feet and an increased digital pulse can signal the onset of this condition. By remaining vigilant for these subtle changes, horse owners can take prompt action and consult a veterinarian to ensure their horse’s health and well-being.​ Explore laminitis treatment protocols at AAEP.

One day, while grooming my young gelding, I noticed he was hesitant to walk. His front hooves felt warmer than usual, and his pulse was stronger. I immediately cooled his hooves and called my vet. Thankfully, catching it early prevented severe damage to the coffin bone.

Recognizing the early signs is only the first step. Diagnosing founder requires a veterinarian’s expertise to assess the severity and determine the best treatment plan.

Diagnosing Founder: When to Seek Veterinary Help

If you notice any signs of laminitis or suspect founder in your horse, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve recovery outcomes and prevent long-term damage.​

Diagnostic Tools Commonly Used:

• Hoof Testers: Identify sensitive areas in the hoof by applying pressure.​
• Radiographs (X-rays): Confirm coffin bone rotation or sinking and assess the severity of the condition.​
• Venogram: This visualizes blood flow within the hoof, helping to determine the extent of vascular injury.​American College of Veterinary Surgeons+1American College of Veterinary Surgeons
• Blood Work: Detects metabolic imbalances like insulin resistance or inflammation, which can be underlying causes of laminitis.​

By utilizing these diagnostic tools, veterinarians can develop an effective treatment plan tailored to your horse’s condition.

Catching founder early gives your horse the best chance for recovery. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice signs of laminitis or suspect founder. A prompt diagnosis can prevent long-term damage and improve outcomes.

What’s the Difference Between Laminitis and Founder?

Although the terms laminitis and founder are often used interchangeably, they refer to different stages of the same condition. Laminitis is the initial inflammation of the laminae, while founder occurs when the condition worsens, causing the coffin bone to rotate or sink. Understanding this distinction is essential for taking timely action and preventing permanent damage.

Key Differences Between Laminitis and Founder

Feature	Laminitis	Founder
Definition	Inflammation of the laminae	Rotation or sinking of the coffin bone
Stage	Early	Advanced
Reversibility	Possible if treated early	Permanent damage likely
Key Symptoms	Hoof heat, reluctance to walk	Altered gait, severe pain

Below is a YouTube video of a horse displaying classic signs of founder.

Why Early Detection Matters

Catching laminitis in its early stages can prevent founder. According to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, recognizing subtle signs like heat in the hooves or an increased digital pulse can help prevent the condition from progressing to founder.

Once founder is diagnosed, a structured treatment plan can help manage pain and promote recovery.

Treatment Options for Founder

Acting quickly when founder is detected can limit damage and speed recovery. Treatment involves immediate care, corrective hoof management, and ongoing maintenance to prevent further issues. Here’s a structured approach to managing founder effectively.

1. Immediate Interventions

Catching founder early is critical. Immediate intervention focuses on reducing inflammation and relieving pain to minimize long-term damage.

• Cold Therapy: Applying ice or immersing the hooves in cold water reduces inflammation and slows tissue damage. Continuous cooling for 48 to 72 hours during the developmental phase can prevent laminitis from worsening. According to DVM 360, cryotherapy can significantly reduce damage if applied within 24-48 hours of onset.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs like phenylbutazone help alleviate pain and control inflammation.
• Alternative Pain Medications: Severe cases may require stronger pain management with medications like Gabapentin, Tramadol, or Tylenol.
• Stall Rest: Limiting movement reduces stress on the hooves, giving the laminae time to heal.

I had a mare that developed mild laminitis after a sudden diet change. I immediately started cold therapy and administered NSAIDs. My farrier worked quickly to adjust her hoof angles, which prevented further damage. Thanks to early intervention, we avoided long-term consequences.

2. Corrective Hoof Care

Once inflammation is controlled, corrective hoof care focuses on realigning the coffin bone, reducing strain on the laminae, and improving weight distribution.

• Specialized Shoeing: Supportive shoeing can help realign the coffin bone and reduce strain on the laminae.
• Therapeutic Trimming: Balancing the hoof minimizes stress and promotes proper weight distribution.
• Shoeing Options:
  • Heart Bar Shoes: Provide support to the back of the hoof.
  • Wedge Pads: Reduce pressure on the toe and assist in realigning the coffin bone.
  • Support Boots and Barefoot Trimming: Combining therapeutic boots with trimming may be a suitable alternative for some horses.

According to the American Farrier’s Association, specialized trimming and shoeing are crucial in stabilizing and supporting horses recovering from founder.

3. Surgical Intervention

In severe or chronic cases where other treatments fail, surgery may be considered to relieve tension on the laminae and improve the horse’s comfort.

• DDFT Surgery: Deep Digital Flexor Tendon (DDFT) surgery may be performed in severe cases where the coffin bone has rotated significantly. This procedure reduces tension on the laminae and can improve mobility.
• When to Consider Surgery: Surgery is typically considered a last resort after other treatment methods have been exhausted.

The Merck Veterinary Manual highlights that surgical intervention can improve outcomes in severe cases when corrective hoof care alone is not enough.

Long-Term Management After Founder

Preventing recurrence of founder requires consistent management focused on maintaining hoof health and minimizing inflammation risk.

1. Diet and Hoof Care

Monitor Post-Recovery Diet Adjustments: After a horse has recovered from founder, adjust grain and forage intake seasonally to match changing pasture conditions and energy requirements.The University of Minnesota Extension provides a helpful guide on managing forage carbohydrate content for at-risk horses.

“Maintaining a low-NSC diet and consistent hoof care are essential for preventing recurrence.” For a comprehensive guide on hoof maintenance, check out Horse Hoof Care: How Often to Clean, Trim, and Tools to Use.

2. Weight Control and Activity Monitoring

Managing your horse’s weight and activity levels reduces stress on the hooves and promotes long-term hoof health.

• Adjust Diet and Exercise for Maintenance: After a horse has recovered from founder, maintaining a balanced diet and consistent exercise routine is critical. While grazing muzzles and dry lots help during high-risk seasons, regular body condition monitoring ensures the horse stays within an ideal weight range. Controlled exercise can also promote hoof health by improving circulation.
• Monitor Body Condition Score: Keeping the score between 4 and 6 on the Henneke scale reduces strain on the hooves. Learn more about Maintaining a Healthy Weight.
• For practical tips, refer to The Laminitis Site, which emphasizes the importance of controlled grazing for horses prone to laminitis and founder.

3. Early Detection and Ongoing Monitoring

Routine checks help catch subtle signs of inflammation before they progress to laminitis or founder.

• Watch for Subtle Signs: Monitor for heat in the hooves, increased digital pulse, and shifting weight between legs.
• Act Immediately: Apply cold therapy and consult your veterinarian if you notice any changes. Recognizing these signs early can prevent a minor issue from progressing to a serious condition.

Preventing Founder: Proactive Measures

Preventing founder is easier than treating it. You can significantly reduce the risk of founder through careful diet management, routine hoof care, and regular monitoring.

1. Balanced Diet and NSC Control

Managing NSC (non-structural carbohydrate) intake is crucial for preventing laminitis and founder, especially in easy keepers and horses with EMS or Cushing’s Disease.

• Feed Low-NSC Forage: Test hay to ensure the NSC content remains below 10%.
• Limit Grain Intake: Avoid high-starch grains and use a ration balancer to provide essential nutrients without excess sugar.

2. Controlled Grazing for Easy Keepers

Limit pasture turnout for EMS-prone horses by using grazing muzzles or turning them out in dry lots with low-sugar hay.

• Use Grazing Muzzles: Grazing muzzles limit grass intake while allowing horses to stay out on pasture safely.
• Utilize Dry Lots: Turn out easy keepers in dry lots with low-sugar hay to prevent sugar overload.

3. Routine Hoof Care

Regular farrier visits help maintain proper hoof angles and reduce stress on the laminae.

• Schedule Trimming Every 4-6 Weeks: Balanced trimming ensures even weight distribution and minimizes strain on the hoof.

4. Monitor for Early Signs of Laminitis

Stay Alert for Subtle Signs: During high-risk seasons (spring and fall), check for heat, digital pulse, and shifting weight to detect inflammation early.

Emergency Response for Founder

If you notice signs of acute laminitis or founder, immediately minimize damage and improve recovery.

• Restrict Movement: Confine the horse to a deeply bedded stall to reduce stress on the laminae.
• Apply Cold Therapy: Immerse the hooves in ice water or cold therapy boots for 48 to 72 hours to slow inflammation.
• Call Your Veterinarian: Describe the symptoms and request X-rays, a hoof evaluation, and blood tests to identify any underlying causes.

If you notice heat, a bounding digital pulse, or reluctance to move, apply cold therapy immediately and contact your veterinarian.

I had a mare develop acute laminitis after accidentally consuming too much grain. I immediately confined her to a soft, deeply bedded stall and started ice therapy. I kept her comfortable while waiting for the vet and minimized her movement. Thanks to these early steps and my vet’s quick intervention, we prevented serious rotation, and she recovered fully.

Founder is a time-sensitive condition that requires immediate action. By restricting movement, applying cold therapy, and calling your veterinarian as soon as possible, you can prevent severe complications and give your horse the best chance to heal.

FAQs About Founder in Horses

Can founder be reversed?

Mild cases of founder caught early can often be managed and improved, but severe cases may lead to permanent hoof damage that cannot be fully reversed. Early intervention with corrective trimming, cold therapy, and diet adjustments can prevent long-term consequences. (Source.)

What is the best diet for a horse prone to founder?

A low-NSC (non-structural carbohydrate) forage-based diet is best for horses prone to founder. Hay with less than 10% NSC content, minimal grain, and a ration balancer to provide essential nutrients without excess sugar can help reduce the risk. (Source)

How quickly can founder develop?

Founder can develop within 24 to 48 hours after a laminitic episode, making early detection and prompt action critical for preventing long-term damage. (Source)

Should I restrict pasture turnout for an EMS-prone horse?

Yes, grazing should be carefully controlled for EMS-prone horses. Using a grazing muzzle or providing turnout in a dry lot with low-sugar hay can help prevent sugar overload from rich pasture, especially during peak sugar times.

What are the long-term effects of founder?

Severe founder can lead to irreversible hoof damage, chronic pain, and ongoing lameness. Horses with significant coffin bone rotation may require lifelong management, including corrective trimming, supportive shoeing, and pain management. (Source)

Final Thoughts

Founder is a serious condition, but it’s often avoidable with the right knowledge and preventive measures. Recognizing early signs, understanding contributing factors, and staying consistent with diet and hoof care can safeguard your horse’s hoof health.

Through years of managing my horses, I’ve learned that vigilance and prompt action significantly prevent lasting damage. Staying proactive and working closely with your veterinarian and farrier can help keep your horse sound and healthy.

If you’ve successfully managed founder in your horse, share your insights in the comments to help other horse owners. Your experience could make a difference!

Miles Henry

About Miles Henry

Racehorse Owner & Author | 30+ Years in Thoroughbred Racing

Miles Henry (legal name: William Bradley) is a Louisiana-licensed owner #67012. Beyond the racetrack, he’s cared for Quarter Horses, Friesians, Paints, and trail mounts for 30+ years—bringing hands-on experience to every breed profile, health guide, and gear review on this site. His racehorses have finished in-the-money in 30 of their last 90 starts Equibase Profile.

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