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How to treat foul (foul-in-the-foot) in lame cows
Foul is a common infection in dairy cattle and is characterised by painful inflammation of the interdigital space and swelling. Find out how to spot it and treat it.
What are the symptoms?
- Sudden onset of lameness
- Skin between claws is broken
- Symmetrical swelling and heat around the foot
- It smells
Cows with interdigital growths can be prone to foul. Growths can be as a result of previous foul infections.
![](https://projectblue.blob.core.windows.net/media/Default/Dairy/Lameness/Page 22b.jpg)
![a close up of a piece of food](https://projectblue.blob.core.windows.net/media/Default/Dairy/Lameness/Page 22c.jpg)
Very aggressive forms of foul are called ‘super foul’. Digital dermatitis is sometimes seen on the same foot.
Ask your vet to look at the animals if:
a) There has been no improvement
or
b) There is a need to cut into the corium (flesh), as this requires local anaesthesia
Treatment
Step 1
Clean out the cracked skin between the claws. Check for and remove any loose stones.
Step 2
Spray the relevant area with a topical treatment.
Step 3
Inject the cow with appropriate antibiotics. Seek advice from your vet.
Step 4
Give anti-inflammatory pain relief (NSAID) under veterinary guidance.
Useful links
Treating digital dermatitis in lame cows
Foot trimming cattle to prevent and treat lameness
If you would like to order a hard copy of the Hoof care field guide, please contact publications@ahdb.org.uk or call 0247 799 0069.