Laminitis is one of the most painful and serious hoof conditions in horses. Choosing the right feed can make all the difference in recovery and long-term hoof health. To help you, we’ve rounded up the best horse feeds for laminitis—low-starch, fiber-rich, and vet-approved formulas that U.S. horse owners swear by.
Top 5 best horse feeds for laminitis
Find the best horse feed for laminitis—low-starch, high-fiber, and vet-recommended options that support hoof health, manage insulin spikes, and keep your horse healthy and comfortable.
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1. Triple Crown Safe Starch Forage( Paid Link )
Triple Crown Safe Starch Forage is one of the most trusted choices for laminitic horses. It’s a low-starch, forage-based complete feed designed to provide all the essential nutrients without spiking insulin levels. This bagged forage mix is enriched with vitamins, minerals, and prebiotics to support gut health and immunity.
✅ Why We Like It:
- Low NSC (Non-Structural Carbohydrates), safe for laminitis management.
- Forage-based, easy to digest, and supports natural grazing habits.
- Fortified with essential nutrients, meaning you don’t need extra supplements.
❌ Why We Don’t Like It:
- Pricier than standard hay alternatives.
- Some horses may take time to adjust to the texture.
Overall, this is an excellent choice if you want a complete, safe forage that supports hoof and metabolic health.
2. Nutrena SafeChoice Special Care Horse Feed( Paid Link )
Nutrena SafeChoice Special Care is specifically formulated for horses prone to metabolic issues, including laminitis. It contains controlled starch and sugar levels, high fiber, and guaranteed amino acids to support muscle repair. Added prebiotics and probiotics also make digestion smoother.
✅ Why We Like It:
- Ideal for insulin-resistant and laminitic horses.
- High fiber promotes steady energy release without sugar spikes.
- Supports shiny coats, muscle tone, and gut health.
❌ Why We Don’t Like It:
- Pelleted feed may not appeal to very picky horses.
- Not as forage-heavy as some alternatives.
If your horse has special metabolic needs, this feed balances nutrition while keeping sugars safely low.
3. Standlee Premium Timothy Grass Pellets( Paid Link )
Standlee Timothy Grass Pellets are a simple yet highly effective option for laminitis-prone horses. These pellets are 100% sun-cured Timothy grass with no added grains or molasses, making them safe for sensitive horses. They provide consistent fiber intake, which helps maintain gut health and stable blood sugar.
✅ Why We Like It:
- 100% natural, no fillers, no additives.
- High-fiber and low-sugar, perfect for laminitic horses.
- Easy to soak into a mash for senior horses with dental issues.
❌ Why We Don’t Like It:
- Not a fortified feed—supplements may be required.
- Pellets can be dusty if not soaked.
A reliable, all-natural forage source that’s affordable and safe for everyday feeding.
4. Purina WellSolve L/S Horse Feed( Paid Link )
Purina WellSolve L/S is carefully crafted for horses with laminitis, obesity, or metabolic syndrome. With one of the lowest starch and sugar contents in commercial feeds, it helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces laminitis flare-ups. It also includes antioxidants and balanced vitamins for immune and hoof health.
✅ Why We Like It:
- Ultra-low starch and sugar—among the safest for laminitis.
- Formulated with antioxidants and omega fatty acids.
- Supports healthy weight management.
❌ Why We Don’t Like It:
- Higher cost compared to some other brands.
- May not be easily available in all regions.
If you’re searching for one of the safest, scientifically formulated laminitis feeds, Purina WellSolve L/S is a strong contender.
5. Manna Pro Senior Weight Accelerator( Paid Link )
While not a complete feed, Manna Pro Senior Weight Accelerator is a great supplement for laminitic horses who struggle to maintain weight. It’s a calorie-rich, low-sugar, high-fat blend with flaxseed for omega-3s, supporting both coat health and joint function.
✅ Why We Like It:
- Helps senior or underweight laminitic horses maintain condition.
- High in fat but safe in starch/sugar.
- Promotes shiny coat, healthy skin, and strong hooves.
❌ Why We Don’t Like It:
- Not a stand-alone feed—must be combined with forage.
- Powder form may not mix well in all feeds.
Perfect for senior or hard-keeping horses needing extra calories without the risk of laminitis flare-ups.
Conclusion
Managing laminitis requires careful feeding choices that balance nutrition with safety. The feeds above are vet-trusted, low-sugar, and designed for laminitic horses in the USA. Whether you need a complete feed like Triple Crown Safe Starch or a supplement like Manna Pro Senior Weight Accelerator, these options can support hoof health, comfort, and overall well-being. Choose the one that best fits your horse’s needs and watch them thrive again.