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.

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.

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.