Lameness is one of the most prevalent and painful welfare problems in sheep farming, yet it is often poorly recognized and inadequately treated across all production systems.
Sheep lameness is a welfare emergency that is chronically under-recognized and under-treated. Sheep are prey animals that mask pain to avoid appearing vulnerable — this evolutionary strategy means owners significantly underestimate lameness prevalence in their flocks. A sheep visibly limping has typically been lame for days or weeks. The pain of footrot or digital dermatitis is significant and persistent, yet farmer surveys reveal that lameness is often managed reactively rather than through systematic monitoring. The welfare cost compounds: lame ewes cannot compete at the feed trough, lose body condition, and struggle during late pregnancy, creating cascading effects on lamb survival. The evidence base for prevention through foot bathing, prompt antibiotic treatment, and genetic selection for foot health is strong and cost-effective.