Hoof Care: Healthy Cattle and a Safe Step

Hoof Care: The Foundation for Healthy Cattle

If the horn of a cow's hooves grows uncontrollably, it inevitably leads to an incorrect weight distribution. The animals begin to go lame, move less to the feed bunk, and milk yields drop noticeably. Proper and regular hoof trimming restores the natural shape of the claw, prevents inflammation, and ensures that the herd steps safely and evenly.

Regular Checks in the Hoof Crush

To prevent lameness, hoof care must be firmly integrated into farm routines. The right tools make this hard physical work much easier:

• Precise Horn Removal: With sharp hand tools or machine discs for the angle grinder, you quickly restore the hoof to its natural shape without having to restrain the animal for unnecessarily long periods.
• Protection and Healing: After trimming, the horn is sensitive. Proven gels, sprays, or bandages protect the hoof from the aggressive manure in the barn and promote healing in the event of injuries.
• Herd Prevention: Regular hoof baths clean the interdigital space and lower the infection pressure for the entire herd.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often do I have to trim my cattle's hooves?
As a rule, the herd is routinely checked and trimmed in the crush twice a year. However, with animals that show abnormalities, limp, or relieve a leg, you must intervene immediately and look for the cause.

Why is blunt equipment dangerous for hoof care?
With blunt tools, you need much more force when cutting. This makes it easier for you to slip, which can lead to severe injuries to the cow or yourself. In addition, the cut becomes unclean.