What Are The Common Causes Of Lameness In Cattle?

Lameness in cattle is a health issue that causes discomfort to the animals as well as economic losses due to reduced milk production, lower weight gain, and increased treatment costs. Lame cattle show signs such as limping, reluctance to move, and spending more time lying down. Lameness in cattle is usually because of hoof-related problems, infections, poor nutrition, and injuries. Farmers and cattle herders need to be aware of all the problems and provide preventive measures so that their cattle remain fit and healthy. The right feeding practices, along with proper hoof care, reduce the risk of lameness.

When livestock owners and farmers take better care of their animals, then it leads to a healthier and more productive herd. Some of the common causes of lameness in cattle are:

1. Foot Rot And Infections

Foot rot is a bacterial infection that causes swelling, foul smell, and pain in the hooves of the cattle. It typically begins when bacteria enter the foot through cuts or abrasions that are caused by sharp stones or rough flooring. If cattle live in a moist and muddy condition, then it further worsens the condition. Infected cattle refuse to walk or walk with a noticeable limp. The worst part is that foot rot spreads quickly and affects multiple animals in the herd. The infected area becomes tender, red, and swollen. Treatment of foot rot involves cleaning the foot, keeping the area clean, applying antiseptics, and giving your cattle the prescribed medications. It is important that you isolate the infected cattle so that the infection does not spread.

2. Hoof Overgrowth

Hoof overgrowth is when the cow’s hooves grow too long and change the way the animals walk and put more pressure on the foot. This causes pain and increases the risk of injury. If hooves are not trimmed regularly, then they may crack and develop abnormal shapes, which leads to serious foot problems. Proper trimming keeps the hooves balanced, and this way, the weight of the cow is distributed evenly. This reduces the stress on joints. There should be a regular schedule to trim the hooves of the cattle so that there is no overgrowth. The flooring should be dry and clean so that the hooves stay in a better shape. When hooves are trimmed properly, then cattle remain free from lameness.

3. Sole Ulcers

They are painful wounds that form on the underside of the cow’s hoof, near the heel. When constant pressure is there on the hooves because of standing long hours on the hard floor, sole ulcers develop. This is common in high-producing dairy cows after calving, when they stand more and put weight on their feet. A cow with a foot ulcer may limp, move ahead with one leg, and avoid moving or standing. The area needs to be treated well so that the condition does not get worse. The hooves need to be removed so that there is no pressure, using anti-inflammatory medications and applying protective pads. Providing soft bedding and reducing standing time should be the preventive checks for this problem.

Lameness in cattle is a serious concern that affects their health and hampers their productivity. Regular trimming of the hoof, a clean environment, and safe flooring are some of the ways that can keep your cattle healthy.

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