What are the Foot Diseases in Cattle and Their Causes?
Achieving productivity and preventing economic losses are crucial in livestock farming. One of the significant causes of economic losses in cattle farming is foot diseases in cattle. This issue, which emerges as a major problem in ruminant animals, accounts for 25% of dairy cattle diseases. Foot diseases, which are common among cattle, affect animal welfare. In this article, we will address the types of foot diseases observed in cattle and the causes of foot diseases in ruminants.
Anatomy of the Foot in Cattle
Before discussing the foot diseases observed in cattle, we need to better understand the anatomy of the cattle's foot. Cattle have cloven hooves. The area that includes these cloven hooves starts from the heel and is referred to as the foot. Each toe is composed of three bones.
What Causes Lameness in Cattle?
Lameness in cattle is a condition that affects the animal's comfort and economic performance, arising from hoof and foot diseases. In ruminant animals, lameness can lead to decreased milk production, reproductive delays, reduced feedlot performance, and adverse effects due to stress. If there is pain in the foot or leg, the cattle will avoid using that leg, resulting in lameness. In such cases, a thorough observation is needed to identify the cause of lameness and apply the necessary treatment.
Causes of Lameness in Cattle
Causes from Ruminants
Factors causing lameness originating from the animal itself include the cattle’s age, pregnancy, lactation period, genetic reasons, and previous illnesses.
Causes from Environmental Factors
These factors are related to the animal’s environment. Foot and hoof hygiene, hoof trimming, temperature stress, and social skills with other animals can affect lameness.
Causes from Management Factors
Factors affecting lameness from the conditions within the farm include methods of transporting animals, overcrowding in the facility, the space available for the cattle to roam, keeping cows in excessively wet and humid environments, and infection control in the facility.
Causes from Nutrition
Incorrect feeding is one of the causes of many hoof health issues. Nutritional diseases can cause lameness in cows. In cases of improper feeding, rations should be carefully analyzed, and the balance between roughage and concentrate feed should be evaluated. Rations with high levels of concentrate feed and low levels of roughage, or high starch content, especially if the starch sources are rapidly digestible carbohydrates, can negatively impact hoof health. In such cases, protective measures like buffer substances, live yeast, and buffering feed additives such as sodium bicarbonate and magnesium oxide should be used. Additionally, to support hoof health, the proportion of roughage should be increased, and concentrate feed should be reduced for these animals.
As Integro Gıda, our specially formulated InteStrong, which contains biotin, organic and inorganic zinc, iodine, and copper, helps maintain the hoof health of your animals. For more detailed information, you can contact us here.
Types of Foot Diseases in Cattle
Foot diseases in cattle can arise from various causes. Commonly observed foot diseases in animals are listed below.
Cracked Hooves in Cattle
Cracks can develop in the soles of cattle hooves due to various reasons. These deep cracks can cause pain, increase the risk of infection, and lead to difficulty in walking. In treating cracked hooves, it is important to clean and repair the damaged area. Additionally, using appropriate dressings or protective coverings can support the healing process.
Foot Rot in Cattle
Foot rot is a common condition seen in cattle with hard surfaces, often occurring in stabled barns or areas with heavy use of straw. It causes cracks in the upper part of the foot, extending downward from the hairline, and carries a high risk of infection. Treatment for foot rot may include antibiotics as well as local treatments. The affected area should be washed to thoroughly clean the cracks, followed by the application of specific antibiotics or antiseptics. The foot should be wrapped with a clean cloth and kept dry for a period.
Foot Arthritis in Cattle
Foot arthritis in cattle is a condition characterized by inflammation of the foot joints. This issue is associated with increased risks due to hard surfaces, inadequate hygiene, injuries, and improper nutrition. Treatment for foot arthritis includes antibiotics, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as ensuring hygienic conditions.
Causes and Symptoms of Foot Pain in Cattle
Foot pain in cattle can arise from the foot diseases mentioned above. Identifying and treating this pain is crucial for maintaining animal comfort and productivity. In ruminant animals, pain symptoms can be observed as follows:
Difficulty moving
Lameness while walking
Keeping the foot elevated while standing or walking
Swelling and redness in the foot
Attention to these symptoms is essential for understanding foot pain in cattle. Veterinary examination and tests will help accurately determine the cause of the pain.
