Lameness affects up to 25% of dairy cows in some herds and represents one of the most significant welfare and productivity challenges in the dairy industry.
A lame cow is in chronic pain, unable to move freely, feed normally or rest comfortably. Despite lameness being largely preventable through housing improvements, hoof care, and breeding selection, it remains endemic in many herds. The economic costs are substantial but are often not fully recognized, meaning the welfare problem persists even when financial incentives for improvement exist. Lameness scoring and treatment protocols are essential welfare management tools.