Sole ulcers

Sole ulcers are areas of damaged sole horn which has completely lost the horn tissue except for the corium and one of the most common causes of lameness in dairy cattle.

Sole ulcers occur when the structures supporting the pedal bone within the hoof weaken.

The bone can then move and sink causing damage to the horn producing tissue beneath and in severe or persistent cases halting horn production.

As the sole wears the area of damaged horn is exposed leading to the development of a sole ulcer.

• Pain and lameness
• Bruising on the sole surface – yellow discolouration
• Thinning of the sole over the ulcer

• Ensure a well balanced diet with adequate forage
• Good maintenance of trackways, gateways and feeding areas
• Provide an adequate number of cubicles with enough space for cows to lie down
• Foot trimming carried out by a trained person