Lameness affects 20-30% of dairy cows in many production systems and represents one of the most significant welfare challenges in the industry. Integrated hoof care and housing design programs can dramatically reduce prevalence.
Lameness causes chronic pain and significantly impairs a cow's ability to compete for feed, rest comfortably, and maintain body condition. The welfare cost is substantial and persistent because lame cows often go untreated for weeks or months due to inadequate monitoring. Evidence consistently shows that lameness is largely preventable through systematic hoof care, appropriate flooring, cubicle design that allows normal lying behavior, and prompt treatment. High-welfare dairy operations treat lameness prevention as a fundamental management priority rather than an emergency response.