Lameness affects up to 25% of dairy cows and represents one of the most prevalent and painful welfare problems in the dairy industry.
Lame dairy cows suffer continuously from conditions including sole ulcers, white line disease, and digital dermatitis that cause severe pain with every step. Studies using pain assessment and willingness-to-pay for analgesia confirm significant suffering. Cows often hide lameness until it is severe, meaning many cases go undetected and untreated. Rubber flooring and prompt treatment dramatically reduce prevalence.