Which complication of severe ruminal acidosis is linked to hoof inflammation and lameness?

• A. Laminitis.
• B. Arthritis.
• C. Spavin.
• D. Myositis.

Answer: (A)

Severe ruminal acidosis can trigger endotoxemia and a systemic inflammatory response that reaches the hooves. The inflammation and compromised blood flow in the hoof laminae inflame the tissues that attach the hoof wall to the coffin bone, leading to laminitis. This hoof-focused inflammation is what causes the characteristic lameness.

Arthritis involves joints, spavin refers to a hind-leg joint issue, and myositis is muscle inflammation, none of which are the classic hoof-specific complication tied to rumen overload.