Bovine Lameness: A Modern Perspective on Prevention and Management

Bovine lameness is defined as an abnormality in a cow’s movement or posture that is caused by pain, usually in the feet, legs or joints. Far from being a simple ailment, it is a complex, multifactorial disease that a significant challenge to cattle welfare and farm profitability worldwide. While lameness has long been recognized as a serious issue, our understanding of its underlying causes and pathology has undergone a significant paradigm shift. The focus has moved from a broad, general concept of hoof inflammation to a more precise understanding of specific, mechanically-induced lesions. This revised perspective is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies that address the root causes of the problem