Hoof measurements related to locomotion scores and claw disorders in dairy primiparous cows

The aim of the presented study was to estimate the influence of the traits of hoof measurement in dairy cows on claw disorders, lameness, and locomotion scores were determined. Data on claw health and measurement trait of claws were collected from 68 primiparous cows housed in tie stalls and from 76 primiparous cows housed in free stalls. Data were collected during professional claw trimming. The following claw disorders were recorded: sole haemorrhage, digital dermatitis, interdigital dermatitis, sole ulcer, interdigital growth, axial wall fissure, sand-crack (vertical fissure), laminitis, and dermatitis of the toe. Locomotion scores were defined directly before claw trimming. The angles of claws were measured in degrees with an electronic protractor. The heel depth, dorsal border, and diagonal sole surface were measured with an electronic caliper. Moderate association of claw measurements with claw disorders was demonstrated. No significant differences were found in hoof measurement traits between cows with normal gait and clinical lameness.