Find and treat foot rot early
Bacterial infection can lead to lameness, performance losses and premature culling.
Technically, it's called interdigital necrobacilosis — a bacterial infection that creates dead tissue between a critter's toes. It's foot rot, and it causes an estimated 75% of all lameness diagnosed in beef cattle. Affected breeding animals become lame and spend less time grazing. Bulls often stop breeding. Growing and finishing cattle exhibit reduced performance.
"The greatest economic loss probably occurs from reduced gains and even weight loss among yearling cattle on grass. We've seen cases where a 900-pound (lb.) animal lost close to 100 pounds," says veterinarian Harold McCaslin, who has practiced in Broken Bow, Neb., for 38 years.
McCaslin says recovery from foot rot hinges on early detection and treatment. In addition to lameness, producers should look for inflammation and swelling of the skin and soft tissue between an animal's toes, which causes the toes to spread apart. The skin between the toes will develop a crack with protruding dead or decaying tissue. Often, swelling from the top of the hoof to the dewclaws or higher also develops. When infection spreads beyond this stage, the condition often becomes chronic.
"The infection can work its way deeper, into joints. It can eventually abcess. Even with aggressive treatment, the animal may not recover," McCaslin explains. "If only one toe is affected, we can sometimes amputate; and with antibiotic treatment, the animal may get along all right. If both toes are affected, you're done. The animal has to be culled."
Perhaps the most common treatment for foot rot is by injection of a long-acting (200 mg) oxytetracycline product. Follow-up treatment may be required in three to four days. McCaslin says the newer antibiotics offer options for treatments that are even longer-acting and some require smaller doses. These drugs are more expensive, but they may be more practical in severe cases or in cases where repeated treatment of cattle running in remote pastures is difficult or where handling facilities are lacking.
Preventative measures to help minimize the economic impact of foot rot include mineral supplementation. Certain trace mineral (and especially zinc) deficiencies have been associated with a higher incidence of the disease. Feeding low-level chlortetracycline through a mineral supplement is another preventative measure. Minimizing exposure to rough footing will help, since the causative bacteria must enter through abrasions or other breaks in the skin. Repeated exposure to standing water may also lead to cracks in the skin.
Producers should consult their veterinarian for advice on prevention and treatment of foot rot. Typically, they will recommend frequent observation of cattle and immediate action when cases are detected.
"The longer you wait," warns McCaslin, "the greater the risk of loss."