Foot rot is an acute and highly infectious disease of cattle, characterized by swelling and lameness.
The disease is caused by an infection with bacteria such as Fusobacterium necrophorum, Bacyeroides melaninogenicus, and Porphyromonas levii. Bacteria gain access through a skin injury or exposure to damp and wet conditions, resulting in a compromised skin barrier. The infection originates underneath the cow's hoof and can spread throughout the foot.
Foot rot initially presents as cellulitis and liquefactive necrosis (tissue death) of the interdigital skin and fissue formation. Without treatment, foot rot will progress to granulation tissue and interdigital granuloma. Advanced cases involve the development of septic arthritis and other serious complications.
Foot rot most commonly occurs during wet seasons, as damp conditions predispose cattle to feet damage and invasion by the organisms.
Minimize risk of interdigital skin injury by covering rough surfaces, ensuring that areas where cattle are kept are free of sharp objects such as old equipment, stones or rusty barrels.
Practice good sanitation and regularly clean manure
Ensure pasture is well-drained, especially areas around water tanks and feeding tubs
Ensure cattle receives balanced nutritional diet with adequate levels of Vitamin D, A and zinc
Trim sharp thorn bushes and trees, such as honey locust, which produce sharp thorns which cattle can step on.
Promptly and properly treat any wounds or injuries.