A two year-old Friesian cross steer had become lame on his right back leg, prompting a vet visit. The steer was part of a mob of twelve similar age steers that had arrived on the property as yearlings.

Closer examination of the foot showed inflamed and thickened skin between the heel bulbs.

There was no interdigital footrot between the claws. A diagnosis of Digital Dermatitis was made. Treatment included topical antiseptic spray (Repiderma) and a course of penicillin injection.

Bovine Digital Dermatitis (BDD) is caused by a bacterial infection (Treponema). It is the most important infectious cause of lameness in cattle worldwide but was only first diagnosed in Italy in 1974. The first case in New Zealand was discovered in a dairy herd in 2004. Since then, it has spread widely through each dairy region. One study in Taranaki found 2/3 of 224 herds examined had at least one cow with BDD. The infection continues to spread. It causes damage to the skin between the heel bulbs or along the coronary band resulting in moderate to severe lameness.

Most commonly it affects the back feet. Wet, muddy conditions predispose to BDD infection and this is worsened by faecal contamination on races, yards and feedpads. Infected cattle spread BDD so quarantine and checking stock before arriving on-farm are useful preventative measures. Regularly cleaning concrete surfaces will help to reduce BDD risk as well as other infections (like mastitis). Ensure hoof equipment is cleaned between cattle, as well as transport pens. Topical sprays and footbaths are also helpful control measures.

It is important not to confuse BDD with footrot, despite both causing lameness. They are caused by different infections and footrot is NOT contagious. Good farm biosecurity and hygiene will dramatically reduce the risk of BDD affecting your herd. Stay vigilant and protect your herd from this debilitating condition!