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Treating digital dermatitis in lame cattle
Digital dermatitis, also known as "hairy warts", ‘Italian foot rot’ and “Mortellaro” is one of the most frequent and painful claw diseases in dairy cattle. It causes lameness, reduced mobility, and decreased eating, which can ultimately lead to milk loss, lowered fertility, and the need for early cow replacement.
Getting control over the disease should be a priority for every professional dairy farmer.
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What causes digital dermatitis in cattle?
Digital dermatitis is caused by the bacteria Treponemes. These bacteria thrive in wet and dirty environments but can also survive in old and dry manure, easily infecting the skin of cows' feet.
Cows with pre-existing claw problems or injuries are more susceptible to developing digital dermatitis. The bacteria can enter through small cuts or abrasions in the skin.
How do cows get infected with digital dermatitis?
The bacteria related to digital dermatitis thrive in moist, dirty conditions commonly found in dairy farms and can be transmitted by:
- Contaminated Environment: Barns with poor hygiene are ideal for the proliferation and spread of these bacteria.
- Direct Contact: Infected cows spread the bacteria to healthy cows through direct skin contact.
- Shared Footbaths or Equipment: footbaths become a source of infection if not regularly cleaned and changed. Similarly, shared equipment, like hoof trimming tools, will transmit the bacteria if not properly sanitized.
- Human Transmission: Farm workers moving between cows can spread the bacteria, especially if they do not follow proper hygiene practices, such as disinfecting boots and tools regularly.
- Water and Soil: The bacteria can also be present in soil and water, especially in areas where infected animals have been.
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What are the symptoms of digital dermatitis?
Below we will explore the key symptoms and signs of digital dermatitis, helping you take proactive steps in safeguarding the health of your cattle.
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- Red wart-like lesions on the back of the heel
- Lameness, reluctant to walk
- Raised hairs on infected spot
- Cow lies down a lot
- The spot has bad odour (smells)
- Lower fertility
- Poor appetite, weight loss
- Reduced milk production
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Protect the health of your cows' claws
Good biosecurity is the most important defence that dairy farmers have to prevent the introduction of new bacteria into their farms.
Check the animals upon arrival, clean and disinfect tools thoroughly before working with them, and make sure all visitors and workers are wearing clean boots and overalls. Keep floors, bedding and stalls as clean and dry as possible.
There are different methods to disinfect, like foot bathsor an automated hoof clean system like
MS AutoHoofClean. In addition, it is important to treat Digital Dermatitis frequently to detect early cases. Ensure the herd hoof trimming is up to the highest standards.
Treating cases early on will be more affordable, causing less loss of milk and the wound will heal faster.
The 5 steps for treating digital dermatitis
Good management is very important for preventing and treating hoof disorders. You should give consideration to measures that will address the following::format(webp))
Prevent hoof problems with regular trimming
Regular hoof trimming is essential for maintaining healthy hooves and preventing claw problems like Mortellaro. Timely trimming helps identify and address any issues, ensuring optimal hoof health. Consider scheduling regular trims, such as during the drying period, to keep your cows in top condition.:format(webp))
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In- and external hygiene measures
Focus on prevention rather than cure, this starts with good hygiene measures. The first step is ex- and internal hygiene measures to prevent bacteria from getting into your herd and barn and to lower the infection pressure. Make sure to properly disinfect hoof trimming knives after each use, as these can be a source of cross contamation.:format(webp))
Boost the immune system of your cows
Improve claw health and fight diseases like Mortellaro with MS Ketoprotect Prestige. This supplement helps cows with energy imbalances and metabolic issues, reducing the risk of claw problems. It has important minerals like zinc and biotin for better claw health. Plus, its special yeast boosts cow immunity, keeping claws healthy.:format(webp))
Instructional video on treating Mortellaro disease using Mortellaro Heal.
Individual treatment of Digital Dermatitis
There are several products to treat Mortellaro in cows. For individual treatment of cows, you can use:
➜ Mortella Heal: A polyurethane adhesive that forms a second skin, promoting natural healing without the use of antibiotics, harsh cleaning agents, or disinfectants. Visible results can be seen in as little as 10 days.
➜ Intracare Hoof-fit Gel: This gel aids in the treatment of Mortellaro disease and is applied with a brush.
➜ Topro Micraderm Spray: A protective spray designed to treat dermatitis digitalis (Mortellaro), Topro Micraderm contains micronized copper and zinc chelates (organic form) that are quickly absorbed by the skin.
Couple treatment of Digital Dermatitis
MS Schippers, in collaboration with dairy farmers, hoof trimmers, and veterinarians, has developed a disinfection mat that offers numerous benefits for both farmers and their livestock. The MS AutoHoofClean system is composed of three key components: the walk-through mat, the pump, and MS HoofClean Care. Compared to traditional hoof baths, MS AutoHoofClean offers several advantages:
- Hygienic treatment: The disinfection mat prevents manure from contaminating the footbath, ensuring a cleaner treatment process.
- Low workload: The walk-through mat is automatically filled with hoof care products via the pump and operates 24/7. It is easy to clean with a pressure washer and provides 2 to 7 treatments per day.
- Cost savings: Research shows that the average farm incurs losses of over €81 per cow due to hoof issues (WUR study). The MS AutoHoofClean system can reduce Mortellaro incidence in dairy cattle by up to 97%, making it a cost-effective solution.
- Environmentally friendly: MS AutoHoofClean uses natural extracts and is pH skin-neutral, making it gentle on animals and eco-friendly.
We recommend MS AutoHoofClean for the best results
Frequently Asked Questions
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