Lameness affects 20-25 percent of dairy cows at any time and causes significant pain that impairs welfare and productivity, yet is largely preventable with good management.
Lameness causes chronic pain that impairs every aspect of a dairy cow life. A lame cow in pain reduces time at the feed face, losing body condition. Social hierarchy disadvantages mean lame cows have less access to lying areas. Reduced mobility impairs access to water. The cumulative welfare impact is severe. The frustrating reality is that lameness is largely preventable with known interventions: appropriate flooring, regular hoof trimming, adequate lying space, and hygiene management. Pain relief is effective when administered but remains underused despite clear evidence of welfare benefit. Lameness prevention is also economically beneficial, making it one of the clearest alignment points between welfare and productivity.