Bovine Foot Diseases

Environment, Genetics, Management… and More

Which cows are most at risk for bovine foot diseases?

Starting from the analysis of data collected in the barn by the hoof trimmer, at the herd level the most critical time is always a few months after the warmer and more humid periods of the year; however, if we consider the individual animal, the origin of the hoof problem is often identified around the time of calving.
Investigating the causes of foot diseases reveals that they result from a series of contributing factors and predisposing conditions leading to an altered balance between hoof production and consumption, alterations in peripheral circulation, or an increased risk of hoof injuries.

These predisposing factors can be grouped into factors related to the environment (climate and season), housing system (type of flooring and bedding, cleaning systems, space available for animal movement and rest), management (staff employed and approach to animal handling, achieved cleanliness of the environment, overcrowding, preventive measures implemented, nutrition), and intrinsic factors related to the animal (age, production stage, weight, previous diseases, breed, hoof pigmentation, hierarchical position).

Note… When considering bovine foot diseases, it’s important to remember that in 80% of cases, they affect the hind limbs, and typically the outer claws. Only in 20% of cases are the front limbs involved, and in these cases, the issues generally affect the inner claws.

Download the complete magazine to explore the following topics on bovine foot diseases:

MYCOTOXINS AND FOOT DISEASES: Pay attention to feed hygiene

FOOT ANATOMY: A few centimeters to support many hundredweight of weight!

INFECTIOUS FOOT DISEASES IN CATTLE: A brief overview

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