Bovine lameness, a costly health issue in the beef industry, significantly affects animal welfare. It's not just a financial burden but a grave concern for the well-being of the animals. With experiences stemming from research at Kansas State University and exposure to the purebred beef business, the importance of foot health in cattle's longevity and breeding success becomes evident.
Addressing lameness issues promptly as producers and veterinarians can aid cattle in faster recovery. If an antibiotic treatment for suspected "foot rot" doesn't yield results within a few days, it's crucial to re-evaluate the situation, ideally with a veterinarian.
Lameness is the second most expensive health issue after bovine respiratory disease, causing reduced weight gain in cattle and decreased cow herd lifespan. High development costs for replacement females increase the need for longevity. Pain-induced stress hormones can hamper bull semen quality and reduce cow fertility, further straining the industry's finances.
Aside from the economic angle, the welfare concern is paramount. Chronic pain from lameness can lead to rapid deterioration in cattle, underscoring the need to minimize their discomfort duration.
Several factors contribute to lameness:
Nutrition:
• The diet fed to cattle plays a crucial role in their overall foot health. To maximize gains, young cattle, especially in heifer or bull development yards, are often fed high-carbohydrate diets.
• Excessive carbohydrate intake in "hot" rations can lead to rumen acidosis, a condition where the rumen pH drops due to inadequate forage balance.
• This imbalance negatively affects hoof horn development and predisposes cattle to conditions like white line disease and laminitis, both leading to chronic pain and inflammation.
Genetics:
• The genetic makeup of cattle significantly influences their lameness susceptibility, and while the industry focuses on carcass quality, other vital traits like longevity, fertility, and structural soundness may be overlooked.
• The selection of cattle for breeding or purchasing new genetic strains is crucial to consider traits like hoof quality, foot angle, and structural correctness.
• "Screw claw" conditions, involving misaligned toe bones, are genetically linked and can lead to complications like sole ulcers and deep digital sepsis, making treatment challenging.
Environment:
• Cattle rearing environments significantly impact foot health, as harsh terrains with sharp rocks can cause skin and hoove abrasions, making them susceptible to infections.
• Wet or muddy pastures increase foot rot risk, while concrete flooring in dairies and working systems can wear down hooves, increasing infection susceptibility.
• Regular hoof checks and maintaining clean, dry, and safe pastures can significantly reduce the likelihood of environmental factors contributing to lameness.
Modern techniques like dart guns have changed pasture treatment methods. Yet, the value of closely examining a cattle's foot remains. Early detection and apt treatment can significantly boost recovery rates.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-erdinhasdemir
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Beef Cattle