Here's Why It's Important to Prevent Lameness

Foot health is another factor in getting cows off to a good start at freshening. Chuck Guard, DVM, with the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, says that lameness is the most costly herd condition.

Based on published reports from Cornell's Ambulatory Clinic, Guard compiled these findings on the cost of lame cattle:

• On average, lameness affects 30 cows out of 100 annually, resulting in an involuntary cull rate of 20 percent on the affected animals
  
  
• “Days open” increases by 28 days
  
  
• Treatment - including veterinary fees, drugs and labor - costs $23 per case

All told, lameness can cost producers $9,000 for every 100 cows in one year alone.

Proper foot care and hoof-trimming during the dry period can minimize the cases of lame cows in early lactation. Cows with good feet not only perform better, but they also are more likely to display estrus behavior - a critical part of breeding programs that rely on heat detection.

Lameness Prevention Actions

Work with your veterinarian and professional hoof trimmer to schedule regular hoof-trimming visits. Make sure all dry cows have their feet examined and trimmed as appropriate prior to freshening.