Lameness in Cattle

Rules of Thumb

Authors

  • David C. Van Metre Colorado State University, 300 W. Drake Rd., Ft. Collins, CO 80523
  • John R. Wenz Colorado State University, 300 W. Drake Rd., Ft. Collins, CO 80523
  • Franklyn B. Garry Colorado State University, 300 W. Drake Rd., Ft. Collins, CO 80523

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20054791

Keywords:

Lameness, morbidity, digital dermatitis, white line disease, sole ulcers, subsolar abscesses, footrot, protocols, farm personnel, on-farm diagnosis, on-farm treatment

Abstract

Lameness remains a major cause of morbidity and economic loss in dairy, cow-calf and feedlot operations. The majority of bovine lameness involves structures of the digit, with digital dermatitis (hairy heel warts), sole ulcers, white line disease, subsolar abscesses and interdigital necrobacillosis (footrot) being among the most common disorders of the digit. Given that owner-initiated diagnosis and treatment appear common in many areas, veterinarians are well positioned to help owners develop protocols for lameness treatment. Application of a few very simple rules of thumb may aid owners in discriminating between cases appropriately managed by farm personnel versus those that warrant prompt veterinary examination. This review will cover guidelines for on-farm diagnosis and treatment of routine lameness cases as well as methods for prompt identification of problematic cases which may require veterinary examination.

Cover image of the 38th Conference Proceedings: A cow nuzzles her newborn calf in a stall with straw bedding. Both are content. Yellow background.

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Published

2005-09-24

Issue

2005

Section

Beef Sessions

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