NJB Hoofcare - Digital Dermatitis in & around Cwmbran
Digital dermatitis is a disease that causes lameness in cattle. It was first discovered in Italy in 1974 by Cheli and Mortellaro. This disease is caused by a mixture of different bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria, including spirochetes of the genus Treponema, are found in the lesions associated with the infection.
Bovine digital dermatitis (DD) is an infectious foot disease of cattle and affects a large proportion of dairy herds worldwide. Lameness caused by DD in dairy cows is a major welfare concern and can cause significant economic losses due to treatment costs, milk drop and reduced reproductive performance. Digital dermatitis is a disease that causes lameness in cattle. This disease is caused by a mixture of different bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria, including spirochetes (spiral bacteria) of the genus Treponema, are found in the lesions associated with the infection.
The role of the hoof trimmer in preventing the spread of bovine digital dermatitis can be pivotal. Routine corrective trimming alongside dally foot bathing and high hygiene is key to the prevention. To find out more about the work done to help prevent the spread of DD, look at this page in the AHDB web site.