Farm Animals

Cattle Lameness Detection and Treatment

Lameness is the third most significant welfare and economic problem in dairy cattle, affecting around a quarter of all cows.

Key Facts

Lameness affects approximately 25% of UK dairy cows at any one time
The condition causes significant chronic pain that reduces milk yield and fertility
Digital dermatitis and sole ulcers are the most common causes
Locomotion scoring identifies lame cows before they become severely affected
Early treatment significantly improves outcomes and reduces suffering duration

Welfare Considerations

Dairy cow lameness represents one of the largest preventable welfare burdens in UK farming. Regular locomotion scoring, hoof care, and early treatment are essential welfare interventions that also improve farm profitability.

What You Can Do

Support farm assurance schemes with mandatory lameness monitoring requirements
Advocate for locomotion scoring at specified intervals on all dairy farms
Engage with the link between housing, nutrition, and lameness in dairy cattle
Support training for dairy farmers in early lameness detection and treatment
Choose dairy products from farms with publicly committed lameness targets