laminitis

Previous hoof pathology can also be relevant.

Laminitis, for example, can produce major changes in hoof capsule mechanics and growth.

Following laminitis, abnormal hoof wall growth and distortion can result in an enlarged or irregular white line and may predispose to secondary separation.

One of the most significant features of white line disease is that early cases may produce remarkably few clinical signs.

This is particularly important because severe white line disease can ultimately compromise the mechanical support of the distal phalanx.

Differential diagnosis is also important.

Laminitis, hoof abscessation, cracks, mechanical wall separation and other forms of hoof pathology can produce apparently similar changes.

A farrier should therefore avoid assuming that every widened white line represents white line disease.