by Dr . Rosslyn Biggs
OSU College of Veterinary Medicine Extension Beef Veterinarian
Foot rot is an infectious disease of cattle , causing swelling and lameness in at least one foot . The associated lameness often leads to decreased appetite and overall performance . It is not uncommon for multiple animals in a herd to be affected .
Foot rot can occur in cattle of all ages , and cases are often seen in wet and humid conditions , but can also occur when it is hot and dry when cattle congregate together . Standing in pens or lots heavily contaminated with feces and urine softens the skin and provides high exposure to the causative bacteria . High temperatures and humidity will also cause the skin to chap and crack , leaving it susceptible to bacterial invasion .
Fusobacterium necrophorum is the bacterium most often isolated from infected feet . This organism is present on healthy skin , but it needs injury or wet skin to enter the deeper tissue . F . necrophorum appears to act cooperatively with other bacteria to cause disease . Moisture , nutrient deficiency , injury or disease can result in compromised skin or hoof wall integrity , increasing the likelihood of the bacteria invading the skin .
Diagnosis of foot rot is typically made following thorough cleaning and examination of the foot particularly the space between the digits following sudden lameness . Fever may also be noted . If treatment is delayed , deeper structures of the foot may become affected , leading to a chronic condition and decreased chance of recovery .
Once foot rot has been confirmed , treatment should be administered . Antibiotics and pain medications along with addressing housing and environmental conditions should be considered . A vaccine does exist , but producers should consult with their veterinarian to see if it is a good option . As with most infectious diseases , affected cattle should be isolated .
Notable improvement should be seen within three to four days following treatment . If the animal is not responding during this period of time , it should be evaluated by a veterinarian . “ Super foot rot ” has been seen in certain areas of the country . It is more aggressive and is not as responsive to standard treatment .
Additionally , there are multiple other conditions that cause cattle lameness . Producers should consult with their veterinarian on diagnostic and treatment options particularly for lameness that does not resolve in the time expected . Approximately 20 percent of all diagnosed lameness in cattle is actually foot rot .
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