LAMINITIS. 
807 
depends on the quantity of normally-digested material which enters the 
circulation at any one time. Such foods are particularly dangerous to 
animals which are unaccustomed to them, and which work little. Chills, 
eithei liom sudden cooling of the body after perspiration, or from the 
consumption of large quantities of cold water, also produce the disease. 
Finally, laminitis occurs as a complication of colic, during influenza, 
soon aftei parturition, and as a sequel of severe purgation. Imminger, 
who states that about 1 per cent, of mares become affected with 
parturition laminitis,” considers the disease due to toxic substances 
produced in the retained lochisB. It is commonest after abortion or 
difficult delivery, and is then very dangerous. He says, however, that 
the feet seem to suffer less than the muscles. 
Symptoms and course. The disease appears suddenly, and when 
located in the front feet is generally recognised on first taking the animal 
G£/ 
Fig. 307.—Longitudinal section of hoof 
three months after attack. a , 
Pathologically modified horn of the 
white line; b, distortion of the horn 
tubules in consequence of sinking 
of the os pedis. 
QL 
Fig. 308.—Longitudinal section of hoof 
one year after severe attack of 
laminitis. 
out of the stable by its attempts to avoid placing weight on the limbs, 
which are thrust forward. The fore feet are moved rapidly, so as to 
avoid weight being thrown on them longer than is absolutely necessary, 
and the hind feet are thrust forward in order to take a greater share of 
the load, and to relieve the front feet. When turned, the horse “ pivots” 
on the hind feet, the front feet being advanced as far as possible, and the 
heels first brought in contact with the ground. 
In disease of the hind feet the horse thrusts the front feet as far 
backwards, under the body, as possible, and, in order to relieve the toes, 
which seem the most painful part of weight, brings the hind feet forward. 
Thus he stands “ bunched up,” and if forced to move sometimes lifts 
the hind legs convulsively. When in a stall or box, he generally rests 
the hind-quarters against the wall, and in severe cases will endeavour 
still further to relieve the hind feet of weight by passing his head over 
the side of the stall, and hanging back from it by his head. If both the 
hind feet and front feet are affected, movement of any kind is exceedingly 
