Priorities in Claw Trimming
As most dairymen understand, claw trimming is a necessary part of managing dairy cattle in confinement. Knowing that the average cost of treating lameness in the diary cow is $600.00 and that the average cost of a replacement heifers is $2,500.00 or more, it makes economic sense to budget for prevention. In following a trimming program, most professional hoof trimmers pay particular attention to the following procedures.
1) Do not over-trim. The function of the claw horn capsule is to protect the corium. When claws are over-trimmed and the sole becomes too thin, the cow is at risk of developing lameness. This is especially true if the cow walks primarily on concrete.
2) Balance the weight-bearing surface within and between the claws. It is indicated that the outer claw of the rear foot normally bears the most weight. As a result rates of blood flow and claw horn growth are greater on the outer claw of the rear feet. Faster growth rates lead to overgrowth and overburdening of the claw. If left unchecked this will contribute to claw disease such as white line disease and sole ulcers.
3) Trim the soles of each claw flat. Trimming claws flat improves the claw’s stability and increases the weight-bearing surface. When trimmed correctly, cows displace their weight to the walls, soles, and heels of each claw.
If the above trimming techniques are incorporated into your dairy’s hoof maintenance program, you will maximize the benefit to your dairy herd.
1) Do not over-trim. The function of the claw horn capsule is to protect the corium. When claws are over-trimmed and the sole becomes too thin, the cow is at risk of developing lameness. This is especially true if the cow walks primarily on concrete.
2) Balance the weight-bearing surface within and between the claws. It is indicated that the outer claw of the rear foot normally bears the most weight. As a result rates of blood flow and claw horn growth are greater on the outer claw of the rear feet. Faster growth rates lead to overgrowth and overburdening of the claw. If left unchecked this will contribute to claw disease such as white line disease and sole ulcers.
3) Trim the soles of each claw flat. Trimming claws flat improves the claw’s stability and increases the weight-bearing surface. When trimmed correctly, cows displace their weight to the walls, soles, and heels of each claw.
If the above trimming techniques are incorporated into your dairy’s hoof maintenance program, you will maximize the benefit to your dairy herd.
posted by Daniel Montoya at 5:18 PM
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