When is a pony at risk for laminitis?

A pony is at risk for laminitis primarily in the summer due to the high sugar content in grass. During warmer months, grass can produce significant amounts of sugars, particularly quick-growing grasses that are lush and green. This increase in carbohydrates, especially fructans, can overload a pony's system, leading to metabolic disturbances that trigger laminitis.

Grass contains higher levels of sugars during sunny, warm days, especially in the afternoon, which makes it crucial to manage grazing times and amounts to reduce the risk of laminitis. Understanding this seasonal risk is essential for pony owners to prevent the condition and ensure their pony's health.

The other options do account for certain factors that can contribute to laminitis risk, but none represent the most critical and immediate threat like the sugar levels in summer grass. While winter feeding practices, lack of exercise, and weather conditions can influence a pony’s overall health and potentially contribute to metabolic issues, they do not relate directly to the immediate risk of laminitis as the abundance of sugars does in summer.