Farmed Sheep Footrot and Lameness Welfare

Footrot and other lameness conditions are among the most significant welfare problems in sheep farming. Affecting a substantial proportion of sheep in many flocks, lameness causes chronic pain that impairs grazing, mobility, and quality of life.

Key Facts

Footrot (Dichelobacter nodosus infection) is the most common cause of lameness in UK sheep flocks
Prevalence of lameness in UK sheep flocks averages around 5% but ranges from near-zero to over 15%
Lame sheep show significant behavioural changes including reduced grazing time, weight loss, and compromised reproduction
The Five-Point Lameness Plan provides a structured approach to flock lameness management
Prompt treatment within three days of detection dramatically improves recovery rates compared to delayed treatment
Vaccination against footrot is highly effective but underused in many flocks
Zinc footbaths reduce environmental pathogen load when used as part of a comprehensive control programme
Genetic selection for foot conformation and footrot resistance is a promising long-term intervention

Welfare Considerations

Lameness in sheep causes prolonged pain that significantly affects grazing ability, productivity, and quality of life. The high prevalence in many flocks reflects management failures that are preventable - farms achieving near-zero lameness prevalence exist and demonstrate what is achievable. The Five-Point Lameness Plan provides evidence-based guidance, but adoption is inconsistent. Prompt treatment, vaccination, and selective breeding for foot health are the most evidence-based interventions available.

What You Can Do

Support sheep welfare standards requiring regular flock lameness monitoring and the Five-Point Lameness Plan
Choose lamb and wool from farms with demonstrated low lameness prevalence
Advocate for vet-farmer relationships that prioritise flock lameness management as a welfare priority
Learn about sheep lameness indicators to better understand welfare in sheep production