Claw Amputation... It's a Wrap!

Abstract

Claw amputation in the bovine provides quick relief of pain in the case of an infected coffin joint. Compared to facilitated ankylosis, claw amputation has the advantage of quicker return to potential production. Except for intramuscular antibiotics, the postoperative care can be eliminated with the use of a pine tar wrap.

My practice began using a pine tar wrap on claw amputations in an effort to avoid the costly follow-up visits every three days to re-wrap. We also wanted an impervious bandage to protect the wound when the cow stood in several inches of liquid manure.