Yes. While it often involves both front feet, it can present in one foot, which is why it’s important to protect the “good” foot and keep hoof care consistent.

Ponies are often easy keepers and may be more sensitive to grass sugars. Practical management can include grazing muzzles and turnout timing—early morning or later day vs peak sun hours.

Major pathways include systemic inflammation after illness,equine metabolic syndrome (EMS)/insulin resistance, and support-limb laminitis after injury.

Common red flags include abounding digital pulse,sustained hoof warmth, increased weight shifting, and a shortened stride early on. Involve your veterinarian early when risk is suspected.

Cryotherapy helps by reducing inflammation and lowering the tissue’s glucose and oxygen requirements, creating a protective, “hibernation-like” effect during high-risk periods.

There’s often a window before clinical signs in high-risk horses. Starting early and maintaining cooling through the high-risk period (often 1–3 days) is emphasized.

A protective target discussed is maintaining hoof temperature below ~10°C—what matters is reaching it and keeping it consistent.