“Feet and Legs: Part Two”
by Chris Reinhardt, feedlot specialist
First, let me state clearly that I am certainly no expert in feedlot lameness; there are many folks out there much more enlightened in this area than I. But like most nutritionists, I am constantly on the prowl for ways to enhance performance and eliminate sources of lost performance. Lameness can come from many potential causes: footrot, swollen joints, toe abscesses, or mechanical injury to the hoof, joints, or muscles.
Data presented at the 2010 Cattlemen’s Day from a recent K-State study conducted in a commercial feedyard confirmed what we may have guessed for a long time; processing feedlot cattle can contribute to a transient increase in the incidence of cattle lameness. Few would argue that lame or sore footed cattle probably do not perform as well as those without discomfort. Whether we blame the facilities, the personnel, or the weather conditions, the data are telling. The good news is that information is power, but only if we use that information wisely and intentionally.
How recently have you evaluated your processing facilities for “comfort” of the cattle’s feet? Are there areas that cattle are required to turn sharp corners where they may likely slip? Slipping can lead to toe abscesses or leg injuries. What is the surface like where cattle exit the chute? Cattle often leap upon exiting the chute; if the area immediately to the front of the chute is hard and/or slippery cattle can fall and injure a joint. Certainly any time there is opportunity for the hooves to slip on concrete there is a chance for toe abscesses to arise.
There are many possible improvements which can be made in these “high impact” areas. One that seems durable and cost-effective is the use of woven tire mats. They provide traction regardless of weather conditions, cushion, eliminate hoof slippage (and the subsequent damage incurred), and are highly durable provided they are properly constructed.
This is one more area we can scrutinize to ensure optimum animal welfare which will lead to optimum performance.
