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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is listed as a contributing factor to laminitis/founder?

Overweight status is a listed contributing factor to laminitis/founder because excess body fat is closely tied to insulin resistance and metabolic imbalances. When a horse is overweight, its insulin regulation can become less stable, leading to higher circulating insulin after meals. This insulin dysregulation can affect blood flow and cellular health in the hoof’s laminae, making founder more likely, especially after a big carbohydrate intake or lush pasture. Keeping a horse at a healthy body condition helps maintain normal insulin sensitivity and reduces this risk. Being underweight isn’t typically listed as a contributing factor, and regular exercise along with a balanced diet supports stable weight and metabolic health.

Overweight status is a listed contributing factor to laminitis/founder because excess body fat is closely tied to insulin resistance and metabolic imbalances. When a horse is overweight, its insulin regulation can become less stable, leading to higher circulating insulin after meals. This insulin dysregulation can affect blood flow and cellular health in the hoof’s laminae, making founder more likely, especially after a big carbohydrate intake or lush pasture. Keeping a horse at a healthy body condition helps maintain normal insulin sensitivity and reduces this risk. Being underweight isn’t typically listed as a contributing factor, and regular exercise along with a balanced diet supports stable weight and metabolic health.