Effect of Presence of Claw Lesions in Heifers Prior to First Parturition on Risk of Developing Claw Lesions during Lactation

Abstract

According to the 2002 National Animal Health Monitoring Systems (NAHMS) survey, 16% of cattle are culled due to lameness. However, this survey may underestimate this number, as cows culled for low production (19%) or reproductive failure (27%) may actually have been lame. Lameness has been shown to reduce milk production (Guard, 1997; Robinson et al, 2003) and fertility (Sprecher et al, 1997; Hernandez et al, 2000; Melendez et al, 2002). Furthermore, dairy producers tend to underestimate extent and severity of lameness within their herd (Whay et al, 2002). Literature also indicates that previously lame cattle are more prone to future recurrences (Peterse, 1986; Raven, 1989; Enevoldsen et al, 1991). Therefore, preventing animals from becoming lame must be a key management objective. However, there is limited data on incidence and severity of claw lesions in calves and heifers. Data is also limited on the impact of claw lesions during the rearing phase on reoccurrences of claw lesions during lactation. The objective of this study was to determine incidence and severity of claw lesions in heifers from 12 months of age to calving and the impact of claw lesions during the rearing phase on recurrence of claw lesions.