Hoof Care Products: An Addition to Good Care
After trimming, the work carries on. Hoof care products support the treated claw, keep it clean and mark treated spots clearly. Added to that are hoof glues for setting blocks and concentrates for the hoof bath. One thing stays important: these products are an addition to clean walkways and regular trimming, not a replacement for them.
Pastes, sprays and concentrates
Pastes can be applied precisely and stay in place even when the animal walks straight back into the passage. Sprays go on quickly and are practical when you want to work at pace in the crush. Coloured sprays also make treated claws recognisable from a distance, which makes the follow up check easier. Concentrates for the hoof bath are dosed as the manufacturer states, and you change the solution in good time, because a dirty bath achieves little. Always follow the instructions on the container.
Hoof glue and blocks
If one claw half shows a painful spot, a hoof block is glued to the healthy half. The affected claw then carries less weight and can heal in peace. For the block to hold, the bonding surface has to be really clean, dry and free of grease. Two component glues cure at different speeds depending on the product, so prepare everything and work briskly. Check the block after a few weeks and remove it when it starts to come loose. With severe lameness or unclear findings, your vet always belongs on the team.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need coloured sprays for?
They make treated claws visible from a distance. On your next walk through the barn you see straight away which animal to keep an eye on.
How long does a hoof block last?
That depends on the surface, the bonding area and how much the cow walks. Check it after a few weeks and remove it once it loosens or is no longer needed.
Do care products replace hoof trimming?
No. They add to regular trimming, clean walkways and dry cubicles. With sick animals, your vet always decides on the treatment.
Hoof Care Products for Cattle
After trimming, the work carries on. Pastes can be applied precisely and stay in place, even when the animal walks straight back into the passage. Sprays go on quickly, and coloured versions make treated claws visible from a distance, which makes the follow up check easier. Concentrates for the hoof bath are dosed as the manufacturer states, and you change the solution in good time, because a dirty bath achieves little. You need hoof glue when a block is to relieve the painful claw half: the bonding surface has to be clean, dry and free of grease. All of this adds to regular trimming and clean walkways. Store the containers frost free and tightly closed, then they are ready when you need them. If there are signs of illness, your vet decides on the next step.