Effects of ketoprofen and phenylbutazone on chronic hoof pain and lameness in the horse.

The research paper studies the effects of two anti-inflammatory drugs, ketoprofen and phenylbutazone, on chronic hoof pain and lameness in horses suffering from laminitis. The findings suggest that a higher dosage of ketoprofen was more effective than phenylbutazone in relieving chronic pain and reducing lameness.

Objective of the Research

• The study aims to investigate the efficacy of two nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ketoprofen and phenylbutazone, on chronic hoof pain and lameness in horses with chronic laminitis.

Methodology of the Study

• Seven horses with chronic laminitis were used for the study and the effects of ketoprofen and phenylbutazone were compared in these horses.
• The analgesic effects of ketoprofen at two different doses (2.2 and 3.63 mg/kg body weight) and phenylbutazone at a dose of 4.4 mg/kg body weight were assessed.
• Hoof pain was quantified objectively through an electronic hoof tester. This device applies a consistent pressure on the hoof and records the horse’s reaction.
• Lameness was subjectively evaluated on a modified Obel scale, which is a widely recognized scale for grading lameness in horses.

Findings of the Research

• The research found that a higher dose of ketoprofen (3.63 mg/kg) reduced hoof pain and lameness in horses more effectively than the lower dose of 2.2 mg/kg and phenylbutazone.
• These effects were still prominent 24 hours after administration in three of the four pain tests conducted, including the lameness grade.

Conclusion of the Study

• The study concluded that ketoprofen administered at a dosage rate of 1.65 times the recommended therapeutic dose was more potent than phenylbutazone in alleviating chronic pain and lameness in horses with laminitis.