Lameness is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in sheep, with foot rot and interdigital dermatitis causing chronic pain in millions of animals annually.
Sheep lameness causes chronic, often severe pain that profoundly affects welfare. Lame sheep cannot compete effectively for food, lose body condition, and have reduced reproductive performance. Foot rot in particular causes extreme pain — affected sheep often walk on their knees to avoid weight-bearing. The 5-day rule (treating within 5 days) and the more demanding 3-day standard promoted by some organisations reduce chronicity and suffering significantly. Regular flock monitoring, vaccination programmes, and prompt treatment are all achievable and cost-effective interventions that substantially reduce lameness prevalence.