The prevalence, causes, and welfare consequences of lameness in dairy cattle in intensive production systems.
Lameness in dairy cattle represents one of the most significant and widespread welfare problems in the global dairy industry. The condition causes chronic pain that affects virtually every aspect of the animal life — feeding, social interaction, fertility, and immune function. Yet it is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Systemic pressures including high stocking densities, lack of pasture access, and inadequate hoof-care resources create conditions in which lameness is almost inevitable. Meaningful reform requires mandatory regular hoof assessment, better flooring standards, and pasture access policies.