Bovine Digital Dermatitis in NZ Cattle: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
September 2025

A two-year-old Friesian cross steer in the Waikato region recently presented with lameness in his right hind leg. The steer was part of a mob of twelve similar age steers that had arrived on the property as yearlings. Upon examination, the steer showed inflamed, thickened skin between the heel bulbs. There was no interdigital footrot between the claws - leading to a diagnosis of Bovine Digital Dermatitis (BDD).

Bovine Digital Dermatitis
Bovine Digital Dermatitis

What Is Bovine Digital Dermatitis?

BDD is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Treponema species. It’s the most important infectious cause of lameness in cattle worldwide, first identified in Italy in 1974 and diagnosed in New Zealand dairy herds in 2004. Since then, it has spread across all major dairy regions, including Waikato and King Country. One study in Taranaki found 2/3 of 224 herds examined had at least one cow with BDD.

Common Symptoms:

  • Scouring
  • Poor coat condition
  • Coughing (linked to lungworm)
  • Stunted growth
  • Sudden death in severe cases

BDD typically affects the back feet and causes damage to the skin between the heel bulbs or along the coronary band.

Risk Factors for BDD in Waikato & King Country

Wet, muddy conditions—common in the Waikato region—combined with faecal contamination on races, yards, and feedpads, significantly increase the risk of infection. Infected cattle can spread BDD quickly, making quarantine and biosecurity essential and checking stock before arriving on-farm are useful preventative measure.

Diagnosis & Treatment

In the case above, the steer was treated with:

  • Topical antiseptic spray (Repiderma)
  • Penicillin injections

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent herd-wide outbreaks.

Prevention Strategies for NZ Farmers

To reduce the risk of BDD on your farm:

  • Clean concrete surfaces regularly
  • Disinfect hoof equipment between cattle
  • Clean transport pens
  • Use topical sprays and footbaths
  • Quarantine new stock
  • Avoid confusing BDD with footrot (footrot is not contagious)

Protect Your Herd with Vetora

If you're farming in Ōtorohanga, Te Awamutu, Putaruru, Tokoroa, Cambridge, Hamilton, or anywhere in Waikato or King Country, contact your local Vetora clinic. Our experienced vets can help you:

  • Diagnose lameness accurately
  • Treat BDD effectively
  • Implement biosecurity and hygiene protocols
  • Prevent future outbreaks