In our previous column, we discussed the functional claw trimming procedure. When done correctly, this procedure forms the foundation of a comprehensive foot health program on the dairy.

1. Concaved sole surface versus flat
The sole surface of the claw should be trimmed flat to maximize the weight-bearing surface. Pasture-based cattle will generally have overgrowth of the wall which creates a concave surface. However, because concrete is an unforgiving surface (vs. dirt), the sole surface of cattle confined to concrete should be trimmed flat. A concave surface causes the claws to pull apart when making contact with the flooring surface and can increase the incidence of ulcers and white line disease.

2. Don’t forget the toe
The first step of the functional trimming procedure is to measure the toe length and trim it accordingly. Failing to reduce toe length (correct toe length indicated by the blue line in Figure 2) and only trimming the sole of the claw increases the amount of weight borne at the heel, increasing the risk of development of sole ulcers and white line disease. Toe length is measured along the front wall of the claw from the hairline to the tip of the toe and should be a minimum of 3 inches for mature Holstein cattle.

3. Wall removal
Rounding off or removing wall horn compromises the weight-bearing surface of the claw and can increase the incidence of white line disease and toe ulcers. The wall of the claw is composed of very tough tubular horn and provides two basic functions: 1) protects internal structures of the claw and 2) provides rigid, weight-bearing support for the claw.

4. Over-trimming
The majority of over-trimming results from trimming the toe too short and removing too much sole and/or heel. Over-trimming increases the risk for development of ulcers and white line disease. Remember, the difference between a good trim and a bad trim is a distance of millimeters. Over-trimming is of greatest concern in intensively managed dairy cattle housed on concrete. Many of these cows are already lacking heel depth as the sole is worn thin by walking long distances on abrasive surfaces.

Claw trimming is an integral part of hoof health management in dairy herds. It is important to note that all trimmers will make an occasional mistake as trimming is a difficult job. However, by recognizing certain claw trimming fundamentals, one can help reduce the risk of lameness caused by claw trimming miscues.  EL

Photos courtesy of Nigel Cook, University of Wisconsin – Madison and from Cattle Footcare and Claw Trimmings, E. Toussaint Raven.

Dr. Jeff DeFrain
Research Nutritionist -
Zinpro Performance Minerals

Dr. Luis Rodriguez
Accounts Manager - California
Zinpro Performance Minerals