Farm Animals

Sheep Lameness Prevention Through Foot Management

Lameness is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in sheep, affecting up to 10% of UK flocks, and prevention through proactive foot management is highly effective.

Key Facts

Footrot (Dichelobacter nodosus) is the leading cause of lameness in UK sheep
Sheep lameness causes productivity losses estimated at 140 pounds per lame animal per year
Five-day antibiotic treatment is more effective than foot-trimming for active footrot
Zinc sulphate footbaths prevent footrot establishment and spread between animals
Selective breeding for footrot resistance offers long-term prevention solution

Welfare Considerations

Lameness causes chronic pain that impairs grazing, social behaviour, and overall welfare. Regular flock lameness scoring, prompt treatment, and preventive footbathing represent the most effective welfare interventions, with treatment within 3 days of detection being critical.

What You Can Do

Monitor flock lameness rates quarterly using standardised scoring
Implement footbathing protocols during high-risk periods
Treat lame sheep within 3 days of detection with appropriate antibiotics
Seek accreditation under sheep health schemes that include lameness targets