Catch Cattle Hoof Problems Early

REDFIELD, Iowa (DTN) -- Excessive rainfall and wet weather can lead to lameness in cattle and eventually foot rot.

"Foot rot is a bacterial infection of the foot characterized by swelling and pain, often in the interdigital space, and associated with lameness," said Iowa State University Extension beef specialist Chris Clark. "Following a wet spring and recent storms and flooding, there may be a greater risk for this in Midwestern cattle herds."

THE CAUSE OF FOOT ROT

The prolonged wet, muddy conditions can lead to a softening and thinning of the interdigital skin, allowing bacteria to enter. Clark said this is often seen when weather changes lead to standing water, saturated pastures and deep mud.

Oklahoma State University Senior Extension Specialist Barry Whitworth said catching foot rot quickly can help prevent a chronic problem. It is most often caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum, although other bacteria could be involved, also. The problem starts when bacteria enter foot tissue through skin breaks caused by puncture wounds, abrasions or continuous exposure to wet conditions. The bacteria then multiply, releasing toxins and causing damage.

Clark said an accurate diagnosis is key, along with the right treatment. Early identification and treatment are key to preventing the infection in deeper structures of the foot.

Diagnosis through examinations of the foot should be done to look at both claws of the hoof and for the appearance of redness, swelling or a foul-smelling odor.

"Systemic antibiotics are used for treatment and several available drugs are labeled for treatment of foot rot. It's essential to have a valid veterinary client-patient relationship to get access to these prescription drugs, and it's important to follow label directions, including recommended dose, administration route, and withdrawal time," Clark said.

Whitworth said cattle with foot rot may exhibit a fever, refuse to eat or show a reluctance to bear weight on the infected limb because of pain. The foot should be cleaned before applying a topical medication.

Vaccines and other products on the market can claim to address a foot rot issue, but he recommended consulting the herd veterinarian to determine the best options to safeguard a herd.

PREVENTION IS THE KEY

Foot rot can affect both cow-calf and feedlot operations. Clark said in a feedlot, proper pen maintenance is the key to giving cattle a place to get out of the mud. He added that a cow-calf operation should consider moving cattle out of saturated pastures until conditions are drier.

Reinforcement and maintenance to high-traffic areas is important, as well as moving mineral and creep feeders to minimize mud.

"Producers should scout regularly for signs of lameness and work with their veterinarian to be fully informed and prepared," Clark concluded.

Jennifer Carrico can be reached at jennifer.carrico@dtn.com

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