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Treating digital dermatitis in lame cattle
Digital dermatitis, also known as "hairy warts", ‘Italian foot rot’ and “Mortellaro” is one of the most frequent and painful claw diseases in dairy cattle. It causes lameness, reduced mobility, and decreased eating, which can ultimately lead to milk loss, lowered fertility, and the need for early cow replacement.
Getting control over the disease should be a priority for every professional dairy farmer.
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What causes digital dermatitis in cattle?
Digital dermatitis is caused by the bacteria Treponemes. These bacteria thrive in wet and dirty environments but can also survive in old and dry manure, easily infecting the skin of cows' feet.
Cows with pre-existing claw problems or injuries are more susceptible to developing digital dermatitis. The bacteria can enter through small cuts or abrasions in the skin.
Main risk factors:
- wet floors contaminated with manure
- poor hygiene in walking alleys and cubicles
- high stocking density
- poorly managed footbaths
- trimming tools that are not disinfected
How do cows get infected with digital dermatitis?
The bacteria related to digital dermatitis thrive in moist, dirty conditions commonly found in dairy farms and can be transmitted by:
- Contaminated Environment: Barns with poor hygiene are ideal for the proliferation and spread of these bacteria.
- Direct Contact: Infected cows spread the bacteria to healthy cows through direct skin contact.
- Shared Footbaths or Equipment: footbaths become a source of infection if not regularly cleaned and changed. Similarly, shared equipment, like hoof trimming tools, will transmit the bacteria if not properly sanitized.
- Human Transmission: Farm workers moving between cows can spread the bacteria, especially if they do not follow proper hygiene practices, such as disinfecting boots and tools regularly.
- Water and Soil: The bacteria can also be present in soil and water, especially in areas where infected animals have been.
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What are the symptoms of digital dermatitis?
It's a fact that cows suffering from Mortellaro's disease tend to lie down more and move less. This results in fewer visits to the milking robot and lower feed intake, which in turn leads to reduced milk production and extra work.
Additionally, the infection reduces their feed intake because they avoid walking to the feed fence. This increases the risk of 'slug feeding'—a sudden, large intake of feed by the cow—which can upset their stomach and cause ruminal acidosis.
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- Red wart-like lesions on the back of the heel
- Lameness, reluctant to walk
- Raised hairs on infected spot
- Cow lies down a lot
- The spot has bad odour (smells)
- Lower fertility
- Poor appetite, weight loss
- Reduced milk production
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Protect the health of your cows' claws
Effective biosecurity is the most critical defense dairy farmers have against the introduction of new bacteria to their farms.
Start by inspecting animals upon arrival, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting tools before use, and ensuring all visitors and workers wear clean boots and overalls. Keep floors, bedding, and stalls as clean and dry as possible to maintain optimal hygiene.
There are various methods for disinfection, such as foot baths or automated systems like the MS AutoHoofClean. Additionally, regularly monitoring and treating Digital Dermatitis is essential for early detection and prevention. Maintaining the highest standards in herd hoof trimming is equally important.
Addressing cases early reduces costs, minimizes milk loss, and promotes faster healing.
The 5 steps for treating digital dermatitis
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Prevent hoof problems with regular trimming
Regular hoof trimming is essential for maintaining healthy hooves and preventing claw problems like Digital Dermatitis. Timely trimming helps identify and address any issues, ensuring optimal hoof health. Consider scheduling regular trims, such as during the drying period, to keep your cows in top condition.:format(webp))
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Internal and external hygiene measures
Focus on prevention rather than cure, this starts with good hygiene measures. The first step is external and internal hygiene measures, to prevent bacteria from getting into your herd and barn, and to lower the infection pressure. Make sure to properly disinfect hoof trimming knives after each use, as these can be a source of cross-contamination.:format(webp))
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