Footcare in cattle and sheep
Lameness in cattle and sheep can have a devastating effect on flock and herd productivity and economic returns. In fact lameness is one of the biggest problems in sheep farming. Lameness can massively reduce fertility, growth, feed intake & mobility. Lameness in the dairy herd can have profound impact on milk production, fertility, cow comfort and welfare which will be a huge drain on profits. The most recent figures show that lameness costs the dairy industry in the UK & Ireland an estimated £350 million. Inevitably to reduce and control lameness it will require proper management and use of effective products.
Scald Often occurs between the hoof horns and is usually a reddish discolouration and moist with the loss of hair. Inflammation occurs in the skin between the digits. With scald there is generally no bad smell and little or no involvement in the hoof. This largely effects new lambs.
Foot rot Originates between the digits but develops to an under-run hoof and it also has a distinctive smell. Foot rot is a highly infectious disease which spreads rapidly in moist temperature climates. With easy transmission from animal to animal, proper control and prevention must focus on the whole flock or herd as it particularly transmissible when sheep are confined in a small area e.g. during housing, in handling yards, contaminated bedding or access routes.
Contagious Ovine Digital Dermatosis (CODD)Regarded as one of the most severe foot conditions affecting sheep. Sheep suffering from cases of CODD can be left permanently lame due to changes to underlying tissues and bone within the hoof. Highly contagious and painful.
Shelly Hoof Condition is not infectious but will mean animal is more predisposed to secondary infections. Risk increases if scald & footrot levels are high. Mineral and vitamin levels should be checked.
So what can we do about it? Country Hoof Solution Footbath has a scientifically patented formula with self-assembling targeted micro-emulsion technology. It’s also fast acting and remains on the hoof. For optimum results, foot bathing should be done as often as possible. The highly concentrated formula allows for use at 1% dilution rate for maintenance and 2% dilution rate for more difficult conditions. Up to 600 sheep passes can be made in a 100litre footbath. It is good practice to change the footbath solution after 600 sheep, or after 2 days, whichever is soonest.
Identify and measure lameness on a regular basis, at least monthly to adjust dilution rates as required. Depth of the footbath solution should be at least 3 inches for full hoof immersion which should be checked and topped up as necessary. Use pre-wash bath for best results. For optimum results Country UF Hoof Solution Spray should also be used.
Country Hoof Solution Spray is a topical sheep spray with a scientific formulation it is long-lasting and has a protective film to speed healing.
Country UF Hoof Solution Sheep Spray is recommended for topical application during hoof trimming or routine handling. Apply every two days for up to one week. It can be used at the earliest sign of lameness. Clean hooves thoroughly before use and trim hooves if necessary. Shake container and spray until affected area is covered and allow 1-2 minutes to dry.
Country Hoof Solution Gel is a topical cattle hoof gel. It is long lasting and has a targeted action. Hoof solution Gel is recommended for application during hoof trimming or milking routine. Apply once per week for a maximum of 3 times. Can be applied with or without a wrap or bandage.
Use as soon as possible once lesion is identified. Before application, clean and trim hoof if necessary. Apply hoof solution cattle gel directly onto infected area only from tube with mastic gun. Allow to dry for 1 minute or apply bandage if required & reapply as needed.
When using the Hoof Solution Footbath in Cattle, the highly concentrated formula allows for use at a 1% dilution rate for maintenance, and 2% for more difficult conditions. Up to 750 cow passes can be made in a 200 litre footbath. It’s good practice to change the bath after 750 passes or 2 days, whichever is soonest.
For optimum results, foot bathing should be done every milking, every day.
Depth of footbath should be at least 5 inches for full hoof immersion which should be checked during and after milkings, then topped up as necessary.
Pop in and speak to one of our experienced team members for more information on the Country UF Foot range.
Country UF Hoof products work both inside and out using unrivalled footbath technology which forms a self-assembling micro-emulsion on dilution for use. The solution works by penetrating deep into the hoof cleft. It’s safer to use with fewer Health & Safety implications and conforms with EU biocidal regulations.
All your footcare needs
Country UF Hoof Solution Footbath
Available in 5L and 20L
Country UF Hoof Solution Sheep Spray 500ml £16.80
Country UF Hoof Solution Cattle Gel 300g £16 + VAT
