Evaluation of feet and legs important for cattle longevity

Routine evaluation of the health status of cattle is important to ensure that your animals are comfortable and productive. Visual appraisal of body condition scores (BCS), fly stress, and signs & symptoms of sickness are easily observed as you walk through pastures or move cattle through your working facilities on a regular basis. There is one area that can sometimes go overlooked as you evaluate the general condition of your cattle, and that’s the feet and legs. A cow’s mobility is crucial for its health, productivity,  and longevity in the herd. Cattle have to be able to travel on their own as they move across a pasture to graze, to find water, to breed, and calve without assistance. The University of Florida County Extension Director and Commercial Livestock Agent for Escambia County Nick Simmons talks your herd’s feet, legs and working with your local veterinarian to help keep them healthy. Read more…