Laminitis in Dairy Cattle

The majority of hoof problems in the bovine species affect dairy cows. Proper nutrition management can lower the number of hoof problems in your dairy herd. Laminitis often is a result of a wide range of factors which include metabolic and digestive disorders; stress associated with parturition; mastitis; mertritis; hard or poorly bedded stalls; too little exercise; excessive body weight; and poor nutritional management.

It is generally accepted that the primary cause of laminitis in the dairy cow is rumen acidosis. Acidosis results either from a diet that contains too much starch or one that does not contain enough fiber. Starch in the rumen is broken down and produces lactic acid. When acidosis occurs, the level of lactic acid exceeds the capacity of the rumen microbes to metabolize it. The increase in acidity can kill populations of rumen microbes and this is thought to release toxins which are responsible for changes in the hoof. Since diet is a key trigger in laminitis, changing a cow’s ration is going to be necessary if the cow develops laminitis.

All cattle should have rations balanced for calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins. In particular, the addition of vitamins A and D to the dairy cow ration is essential for good bone and tissue health. Other helpful nutrient supplementation can come from zinc, copper, molybdenum, manganese, vitamin E, and biotin.

Nutrition plays a significant role in hoof disorders, and changes in the normal pattern of ruminal fermentation tremendously influence hoof health. Feed a total mixed ration (TMR) to regulate concentrate-to-forage ratio. Closely observe changes in forage moisture content and modify rations accordingly.

Successful feeding programs will maximize feed intake, minimize acidosis, while maximizing energy intake during lactation. This will allow for superior milk production and a decrease in diet caused laminitis in your dairy herd.