As the winter show season approaches, preparing your show heifer for the ring is a time-consuming and rewarding process. But one of the most frustrating setbacks is lameness—a condition that can derail all your hard work.
The good news is that with the right care, you can prevent lameness before it takes hold and ensure your heifer stays sound and healthy.
Spotting Early Signs of Lameness
Catching the signs of lameness early can make all the difference! Here are five key indicators to watch for:
1. Changes in Stride
A lame heifer might limp, favor one leg, or have a noticeable difference in her stride length. You may even notice that their head bobs up and down with each painful step. If the limp is severe or persistent, or if there is any reluctance to bear weight on one leg, you should consult with a veterinarian.
2. Swelling or Heat
You may notice swelling when looking up close to areas, especially around their hooves or knees. You may also feel these areas to be warmer than usual. If the area is tender, they may react to this touch or to placing pressure on it.
3. Hoof Condition
Check to see if the hooves have any cracks, overgrowth, or debris stuck in them as this could be a sign of soreness.
4. Stiffness or Reluctance to Move
If your heifer is slow to move or seems stiff when she is walking, it could be a sign of muscle or joining issues. You may also notice that she will keep the hoof lifted off the ground or will continue to shift the weight off the leg when standing for a period of time.
5. Behavioral Changes
You know your heifer’s normal behavior. If she’s less energetic, not eating as much, or lying down more often, she might be trying to avoid putting pressure on a sore leg.
Treatments for Lameness
If you notice any symptoms, it is important to treat them quickly. It is important to find the reason for the lameness this will determine the course of treatment. The severity can influence the treatment, but here are some common approaches:
1. Rest
If the severity is low and it is a very mild case, all treatment may need to consist of rest. Avoid excessive walking or any strenuous activity. Rest is also beneficial for lameness cases cause by trauma such as joint sprains. Try to provide them with deep bedding like straw and avoid letting them interact with other animals in ways that could cause unnecessary stress or movement until they are able to move better and bear weight on the affected limb.
2. Pain Management
Consult your vet about any medication that may help with pain or swelling. It is important to remember that you should consult with your veterinarian before giving any medication to avoid the possibility of misusing non-approved substances
3. Antibiotics
If lameness is caused by infections like foot rot or joint infections, antibiotics may be necessary. Topical treatments, like copper sulfate solutions, can address surface-level issues like hairy heel warts.
4. Hoof Care
In hoof related lameness cases, hoof procedures may need to be performed. This is when the infection is present underneath the hoof wall. If the infection is suspected ot be under the hoof wall, it is important to consult with a hoof care professional to address the issue before it leads to severe lameness. The hoof may need to be trimmed or carved out to allow the infection to drain to the outside. Using hoof blocks can also help to treat the heifer when only one toe is affected.
Common Sources of Lameness
Lameness in show heifers can happen for a variety of reasons, and figuring out the cause is key to getting them back on track. When you know what’s behind it, you can take the right steps to treat and prevent it from happening again.
Laminitis
Laminitis is a common cause of lameness in cattle and is often linked to diet-related issues. It typically occurs when heifers are overfed high-grain diets or experience sudden changes in their feed. These dietary imbalances can lead to inflammation and discomfort in the hooves, impacting mobility and overall performance. Preventing laminitis starts with careful nutrition management, ensuring consistent feed practices and avoiding abrupt changes to the diet. Laminitis is also commonly referred to as founder in livestock.
Foot Rot
If foot rot is suspected, start by cleaning the affected area thoroughly and applying a 5% copper sulfate solution. Also make sure the animal is in clean bedding and not standing in any mud. If swelling persists after two days, consult a veterinarian for further treatment options, such as antibiotics.
Prevention: The Best Defense Against Lameness
Preventing lameness is always easier than treating it. Focus on these proactive measures:
1. Regular Hoof Care
Hoof issues are one of the most common causes of lameness. Regular hoof inspections and trims help prevent overgrowth and minimize the risk of cracks and infections. Having your heifer seen by a professional hoof trimmer is also a great idea as they are the experts when it comes to hoof care.
2. Balanced Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for strong muscles and bones. Any deficiencies in vitamins or minerals can weaken their hooves, especially zinc. Make sure your heifer is on a well-balanced diet and nutritionist recommend free choice mineral, like one of Ralco’s Rumatec minerals. Feel free to contact one of our ruminant nutritionists at 507-337-6916 to determine which option would be best for your operation!
3. Clean, Dry Bedding
Wet or dirty bedding can soften hooves, leading to infections like foot rot. Keep bedding clean and dry to protect your heifer’s hooves.
4. Balanced Exercise
Exercise is great for building endurance, but excessive training on hard surfaces can lead to injuries. Try to plan a balanced exercise routine to keep your heifer in shape without pushing her too hard. Exercise on soft surfaces, like grass, is ideal for reducing the risk of joint strains. Avoid any surfaces that may be wet or slippery as this can also lead to slips and falls.
5. Joint and Muscle Support with Stro N Flo
Adding a joint supplement like Stro N Flo can provide your heifer with essential joint and muscle support. Stro N Flo contains biotin, chelated trace minerals and natural vitamin E which helps lubricate the joints, reduce stiffness and aid in muscle recovery. By incorporating Stro N Flo into your heifer's routine, you help reduce the risk of lameness while improving her overall performance in the show ring.
Set Your Heifer Up for Success
Preventing lameness in your show heifer comes down to attention to detail and consistent care. By being proactive with nutrition, hoof care and supplements like Stro N Flo, you can keep your heifer sound and ready to shine in the ring. Don’t let lameness derail your hard work—set your heifer up for success this show season!
Schedule a FREE consultation with a ruminant nutritionist today by calling 507-337-6916 or emailing RuminantHelp@RalcoAgriculture.com
Rumatec - Cow/Calf Mineral
The Rumatec line of cow/calf mineral supplements provides the needed nutrients commonly deficient in forages to help ensure optimum performance and reproductive efficiency.
Stro N Flo - Hoof & Pad Supplement
Stro N Flo focuses on proper health for hooves and pads to keep them sound and in the best shape possible. It promotes soundness, helps maintain hoof and pad health, and supports immune function to ensure your livestock stays in peak performance.