Hoof Bandages Cattle: Secure Hold After the Hoof Trimming

Hoof Bandages: Protection for the Treated Claw

After a treatment, the claw has to stay clean even when the animal walks straight back into the passage. A hoof bandage keeps dirt and moisture out and holds dressings in place. For it to do its job, you need the right build up of padding, wrap and waterproof finish, and a pressure that sits firmly without cutting off circulation.

The right build up

First comes the wound dressing, then a padding bandage or cotton wool that spreads the pressure evenly. Next is a fixing wrap, often a self adhesive short stretch bandage that can be applied without clips. The finish is a waterproof tape that protects the bandage against slurry and wet. Run the turns evenly and without strong tension, especially around the pastern. A bandage that is too tight blocks the blood flow and does more harm than good. Cut it off cleanly at the top so that nothing rubs.

Checking and changing

A bandage only makes sense as long as it stays dry and clean. Check it after one or two days and change it once it is soaked through, slipped or dirty. Watch for swelling above the bandage, for warmth and for lameness getting worse. Those are signs that the bandage sits too tightly or that the treatment is not working. In such cases and with unclear findings, call in your vet. Keep material in stock so you can work straight away when the moment comes. A small box with dressing, padding, wrap and tape kept at the crush means you never have to look for material while the animal is standing there.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a hoof bandage stay on?
Usually a few days. Check it after one or two days and take it off once it is wet, slipped or no longer needed.

How do I spot a bandage that is too tight?
By swelling above the bandage, by warmth and by lameness increasing. Then take it off and apply a new one more loosely.

Which material do I need?
A wound dressing, padding bandage or cotton wool, a self adhesive fixing wrap and waterproof tape as a finish against wet and dirt.