By Forshell, K. P., Buskap, 1999
Description
The inclusion of the condition of the hooves in assessments of the health of cattle is advocated, as foot disorders that are not immediately apparent can have adverse effects on production. Of 14 797 cows that had their hooves trimmed in Sweden in 1997-1998, only 47.1% were healthy; foot rot was found in 21.9%, sole bleeding in 19.9%, ulcers in 5.6%, and other conditions in 5.5%. Although there are multiple causes, the main one is thought to be housing on concrete floors. Foot disorders are not a particular problem in dairy cattle in Norway, where herds tend to be smaller and milk yields not so high, but examination of feet is still recommended for animal welfare
The inclusion of the condition of the hooves in assessments of the health of cattle is advocated, as foot disorders that are not immediately apparent can have adverse effects on production. Of 14 797 cows that had their hooves trimmed in Sweden in 1997-1998, only 47.1% were healthy; foot rot was found in 21.9%, sole bleeding in 19.9%, ulcers in 5.6%, and other conditions in 5.5%. Although there are multiple causes, the main one is thought to be housing on concrete floors. Foot disorders are not a particular problem in dairy cattle in Norway, where herds tend to be smaller and milk yields not so high, but examination of feet is still recommended for animal welfare
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