One of the main and costly drivers for culling decisions is lameness. Defined as an abnormality or injury to the hoof, hoof lesions fall into categories such as sole ulcers, digital dermatitis, white line disease, and laminitis. “Prevention and management of these lesions are essential to maintain the productivity and overall welfare of dairy herds,” said Sommer Thompson of the Miner Institute in a Farm Report article.
Spending days on pasture is a lot less common among dairy herds as more farms have switched over from grazing to confinement systems such as freestalls with concrete flooring. While each has its own benefits, it can also create setbacks. Cows in free-stall barns have significant contact with concrete flooring, creating abrasion that wears down the hoof, which can lead to ulcers or white-line disease. Standing on concrete also adds pressure to certain areas of the hoof, which can cause injury. In freestalls, cows can roam around freely but are restricted to a confined area to do so. Many freestalls have become overcrowded, which can also lead to hoof lesion issues. However, freestall housing allows management to quickly detect health issues, and grooving into concrete flooring creates traction, preventing injury.
Pasture-based systems provide softer footing and often better traction and can serve as a natural way of trimming hooves due to varied terrain. “However, muddy or wet pastures can introduce challenges, as excessive moisture weakens hooves and can predispose cows to digital dermatitis and other infections,” said Thompson.
While both options can be complemented by a footbath to help deter the occurrence of hoof lesions, consistent monitoring, prompt treatments, and proactive measures to prevent hoof problems can ensure well-being, the author noted.
