Treating lame cows

Find out more about the infectious and non-infectious conditions that cause lameness and how they can be treated. 

Whether a cow is lame because of an infectious disease or a physical factor, it must be treated as quickly as possible. 

Lameness does not resolve itself and the faster you intervene, the sooner the animal recovers. Quick treatment can also prevent damage occurring deep within the foot, which protects against lameness in the future.

Digital dermatitis

Digital dermatitis is a common infectious cause of lameness. Our step-by-step guide helps you treat the condition in your herd.

Foul-in-the-foot

Foul is a very painful infection that causes sudden lameness and swelling of the foot. Prompt treatment is very important.

Injury of the horn

Any injury to the horn can become complicated if the lesions get infected, so learning how to resolve these injuries quickly prevents infection and further pain.

Thin soles

Thin soles cause sole bruising; a common condition which affects cattle at many stages of their lives. It can be easily rectified using simple management techniques.

Blocking a foot

Blocking a cow’s foot changes the physical forces which act upon it and relieves weight from affected areas. It’s an important method of managing many types of lameness.

Aftercare

Aftercare is an important part of any treatment and each cow must be monitored during and after her recovery to make sure she is progressing well.

If you would like to order a hard copy of the Hoof care field guide or Lesion recognition trouble shooter guide, please contact publications@ahdb.org.uk or call 0247 799 0069.