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Laven RA, Mason WA, Laven LJ, Müller KR. Repeatability of whole herd lameness scoring: an analysis of a New Zealand dataset. N Z Vet J 2024:1-7. [PMID: 39226912 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2024.2394554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To assess whether a whole-herd lameness score on a New Zealand dairy farm in spring could predict lameness prevalence on the same farm in summer (and vice versa) and whether a single-herd lameness score could be used to determine whether herd lameness prevalence was < 5% in both spring and summer. METHODS Prevalence data (proportion of the herd with lameness score ≥ 2 and with score 3; 0-3 scale) from a study where 120 dairy farms across New Zealand were scored in spring and in the following summer were analysed using limits-of-agreement analysis. In addition, farms were categorised as having either acceptable welfare (lameness prevalence < 5% in both spring and summer) or not (lameness prevalence ≥ 5% in either spring or summer or both). The accuracy and specificity of a single, whole-herd lameness score at identifying herds with acceptable welfare were then calculated. RESULTS The limits-of-agreement analysis suggests that 95% of the time, the prevalence of lameness in summer would be expected to be between 0.23 and 4.3 times that of the prevalence in spring. The specificity and accuracy of identifying a farm as acceptable on both occasions from a single observation were, respectively, 74% and 92% in spring, and 59% and 87% in summer. CONCLUSIONS A single, one-off, whole-herd lameness score does not accurately predict future lameness prevalence. Similarly, acceptable status (lameness prevalence < 5%) in one season is not sufficiently specific to be used to predict welfare status in subsequent seasons. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Whole-herd lameness scoring should be used principally as a means of detecting lame cows for treatment. A single whole-herd lameness score by an independent assessor should not be used to determine a herd's welfare status.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Laven
- Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - L J Laven
- Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - K R Müller
- Tāwharau Ora - School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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2
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Rasmussen P, Barkema HW, Osei PP, Taylor J, Shaw AP, Conrady B, Chaters G, Muñoz V, Hall DC, Apenteng OO, Rushton J, Torgerson PR. Global losses due to dairy cattle diseases: A comorbidity-adjusted economic analysis. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:6945-6970. [PMID: 38788837 PMCID: PMC11382338 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
An economic simulation was carried out over 183 milk-producing countries to estimate the global economic impacts of 12 dairy cattle diseases and health conditions: mastitis (subclinical and clinical), lameness, paratuberculosis (Johne's disease), displaced abomasum, dystocia, metritis, milk fever, ovarian cysts, retained placenta, and ketosis (subclinical and clinical). Estimates of disease impacts on milk yield, fertility, and culling were collected from the literature, standardized, meta-analyzed using a variety of methods ranging from simple averaging to random-effects models, and adjusted for comorbidities to prevent overestimation. These comorbidity-adjusted disease impacts were then combined with a set of country-level estimates for lactational incidence or prevalence or both, herd characteristics, and price estimates within a series of Monte Carlo simulations that estimated and valued the economic losses due to these diseases. It was estimated that total annual global losses are US$65 billion (B). Subclinical ketosis, clinical mastitis, and subclinical mastitis were the costliest diseases modeled, resulting in mean annual global losses of approximately US$18B, US$13B, and US$9B, respectively. Estimated global annual losses due to clinical ketosis, displaced abomasum, dystocia, lameness, metritis, milk fever, ovarian cysts, paratuberculosis, and retained placenta were estimated to be US$0.2B, US$0.6B, US$0.6B, US$6B, US$5B, US$0.6B, US$4B, US$4B, and US$3B, respectively. Without adjustment for comorbidities, when statistical associations between diseases were disregarded, mean aggregate global losses would have been overestimated by 45%. Although annual losses were greatest in India (US$12B), the United States (US$8B), and China (US$5B), depending on the measure of losses used (losses as a percentage of gross domestic product, losses per capita, losses as a percentage of gross milk revenue), the relative economic burden of these dairy cattle diseases across countries varied markedly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Rasmussen
- Section of Animal Welfare and Disease Control, Department Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-1870, Denmark; Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich CH 0857, Switzerland; Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs), Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom.
| | - Herman W Barkema
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Prince P Osei
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - James Taylor
- Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Belfast BT9 5PX, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandra P Shaw
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom; Infection Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SB, United Kingdom
| | - Beate Conrady
- Section of Animal Welfare and Disease Control, Department Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-1870, Denmark
| | - Gemma Chaters
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs), Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom; Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - Violeta Muñoz
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich CH 0857, Switzerland; Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs), Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - David C Hall
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada
| | - Ofosuhene O Apenteng
- Section of Animal Welfare and Disease Control, Department Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen DK-1870, Denmark
| | - Jonathan Rushton
- Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs), Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom; Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | - Paul R Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich CH 0857, Switzerland; Global Burden of Animal Diseases (GBADs), Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
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3
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Rittweg N, Stock A, Jensen KC, Merle R, Stoll A, Feist M, Müller KE, Hoedemaker M, Oehm AW. Associations of cow and farm characteristics with cow-level lameness using data from an extensive cross-sectional study across 3 structurally different dairy regions in Germany. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9287-9303. [PMID: 37641258 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-23195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the associations between milk recording data, body condition score (BCS), housing factors, management factors, and lameness in freestall-housed dairy cows in 3 structurally different regions in Germany. These regions substantially vary regarding herd size, breeds, access to pasture, farm management (family run or company owned), and percentage of organic farms. The data used was collected in a large cross-sectional study from 2016 to 2019. A total of 58,144 cows from 651 farms in 3 regions of Germany (North, East, and South) was scored for locomotion and body condition. Additionally, data on milk yield, milk composition, breed, age, as well as information on housing and management were retrieved. One mixed-logistic regression model was fitted per region to evaluate the association of the data with the target variable "lame" and to allow for a comprehensive reflection across different kinds of farming types. In all regions, undercondition (BCS lower than recommended for the lactation stage; North: odds ratio [OR] 2.15, CI 1.96-2.34; East: OR 2.66, CI 2.45-2.88; South: OR 2.45, CI 2.01-2.98) and mid-lactation stage (102-204 d in milk; North: OR 1.15, CI 1.05-1.27; East: OR 1.24, CI 1.17-1.32; South: OR 1.38, CI 1.18-1.62) were associated with higher odds for lameness, whereas overcondition (BCS higher than recommended for the lactation stage; North: OR 0.51, CI 0.44-0.60; East: OR 0.51, CI 0.48-0.54; South: OR 0.65, CI 0.54-0.77) and parity of 1 or 2 was associated with lower odds (parity 1 = North: OR 0.32, CI 0.29-0.35; East: OR 0.19, CI 0.18-0.20; South: OR 0.28, CI 0.24-0.33; parity 2 = North: OR 0.51, CI 0.47-0.46; East: OR 0.41, CI 0.39-0.44; South: OR 0.49, CI 0.42-0.57), irrespective of the regional production characteristics. Low energy-corrected milk yield was associated with higher odds for lameness in South and North (North: OR 1.16, CI 1.05-1.27; South: OR 1.43, CI 1.22-1.69). Further factors such as pasture access for cows (North: OR 0.64, CI 0.50-0.82; and South: OR 0.65, CI 0.47-0.88), milk protein content (high milk protein content = North: OR 1.34, CI 1.18-1.52; East: OR 1.17, CI 1.08-1.28; low milk protein content = North: OR 0.79, CI 0.71-0.88; East: OR 0.84, CI 0.79-0.90), and breed (lower odds for "other" [other breeds than German Simmental and German Holstein] in East [OR 0.47, CI 0.42-0.53] and lower odds both for German Holstein and "other" in South [German Holstein: OR 0.62, CI 0.43-0.90; other: OR 0.46, CI 0.34 - 0.62]) were associated with lameness in 2 regions, respectively. The risk of ketosis (higher odds in North: OR 1.11, CI 1.01-1.22) and somatic cell count (higher odds in East: increased (>39.9 cells × 1,000/mL): OR 1.10; CI 1.03-1.17; high (>198.5 cells × 1,000/mL): OR 1.08; CI 1.01-1.06) altered the odds for lameness in 1 region, respectively. Cows from organic farms had lower odds for lameness in all 3 regions (North: OR 0.18, CI 0.11-0.32; East: OR 0.39, CI 0.28-0.56; South: OR 0.45, CI 0.29-0.68). As the dairy production systems differed substantially between the different regions, the results of this study can be viewed as representative for a wide variety of loose-housed dairy systems in Europe and North America. The consistent association between low BCS and lameness in all regions aligns with the previous literature. Our study also suggests that risk factors for lameness can differ between geographically regions, potentially due to differences in which dairy production system is predominantly used and that region-specific characteristics should be taken into account in comparable future projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Rittweg
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Annegret Stock
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - K Charlotte Jensen
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany; Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Free University Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Free University Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Stoll
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Melanie Feist
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Kerstin-Elisabeth Müller
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Free University Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Hoedemaker
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas W Oehm
- Clinic for Ruminants with Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany.
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Thomsen PT, Shearer JK, Houe H. Prevalence of lameness in dairy cows: A literature review. Vet J 2023; 295:105975. [PMID: 36990338 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2023.105975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Lameness in dairy cows has major negative impacts on animal welfare and production economy. While previous studies have evaluated the prevalence of lameness in single countries, the present literature review is the first overview of the prevalence of lameness in dairy cows globally. This literature review identified 53 studies reporting prevalence of lameness among representative samples of dairy cows and fulfilling a number of specified inclusion criteria (e.g., at least 10 herds and 200 cows, and locomotion scoring by trained observers). A total of 414,950 cows from 3945 herds were included in these 53 studies, which spanned a 30-year period (1989-2020) and included herds from six continents, with the majority from Europe and North America. Across the studies, the mean prevalence of lameness (typically defined as score 3-5 on a 1-5 scale) was 22.8% with a median of 22.0% and a range between studies from 5.1% to 45%, and a within herd range from 0% to 88%. The mean prevalence of severely lame cows (typically defined as score 4-5 on a 1-5 scale) was 7.0% with a median of 6.5% and a range between studies from 1.8% to 21.2%, and a within herd range from 0% to 65%. Over time, it appears that the prevalence of lameness has changed very little. Several different locomotion scoring systems and definitions of (severe) lameness were used across the 53 studies, and this may have affected the reported lameness prevalence. Sampling of herds and cows, inclusion criteria and representativeness also differed between studies. This review offers recommendations for the future capture of information on lameness in dairy cows and identifies potential knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Thomsen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark.
| | - Jan K Shearer
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Hans Houe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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5
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, De Boyer des Roches A, Jensen MB, Mee J, Green M, Thulke H, Bailly‐Caumette E, Candiani D, Lima E, Van der Stede Y, Winckler C. Welfare of dairy cows. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07993. [PMID: 37200854 PMCID: PMC10186071 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion addresses a European Commission's mandate on the welfare of dairy cows as part of the Farm to Fork strategy. It includes three assessments carried out based on literature reviews and complemented by expert opinion. Assessment 1 describes the most prevalent housing systems for dairy cows in Europe: tie-stalls, cubicle housing, open-bedded systems and systems with access to an outdoor area. Per each system, the scientific opinion describes the distribution in the EU and assesses the main strengths, weaknesses and hazards potentially reducing the welfare of dairy cows. Assessment 2 addresses five welfare consequences as requested in the mandate: locomotory disorders (including lameness), mastitis, restriction of movement and resting problems, inability to perform comfort behaviour and metabolic disorders. Per each welfare consequence, a set of animal-based measures is suggested, a detailed analysis of the prevalence in different housing systems is provided, and subsequently, a comparison of the housing systems is given. Common and specific system-related hazards as well as management-related hazards and respective preventive measures are investigated. Assessment 3 includes an analysis of farm characteristics (e.g. milk yield, herd size) that could be used to classify the level of on-farm welfare. From the available scientific literature, it was not possible to derive relevant associations between available farm data and cow welfare. Therefore, an approach based on expert knowledge elicitation (EKE) was developed. The EKE resulted in the identification of five farm characteristics (more than one cow per cubicle at maximum stocking density, limited space for cows, inappropriate cubicle size, high on-farm mortality and farms with less than 2 months access to pasture). If one or more of these farm characteristics are present, it is recommended to conduct an assessment of cow welfare on the farm in question using animal-based measures for specified welfare consequences.
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6
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Robcis R, Ferchiou A, Berrada M, Ndiaye Y, Herman N, Lhermie G, Raboisson D. Cost of lameness in dairy herds: An integrated bioeconomic modeling approach. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:2519-2534. [PMID: 36894430 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-22446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Foot disorders are costly health disorders in dairy farms, and their prevalence is related to several factors such as breed, nutrition, and farmer's management strategy. Very few modeling approaches have considered the dynamics of foot disorders and their interaction with farm management strategies within a holistic farm simulation model. The aim of this study was to estimate the cost of foot disorders in dairy herds by simulating strategies for managing lameness. A dynamic and stochastic simulation model (DairyHealthSim) was used to simulate the herd dynamics, reproduction management, and health events. A specific module was built for lameness and related herd-level management strategies. Foot disorder occurrences were simulated with a base risk for each etiology [digital dermatitis (DD), interdigital dermatitis, interdigital phlegmon, sole ulcer (SU), white line disease (WLD)]. Two state machines were implemented in the model: the first was related to the disease-induced lameness score (from 1 to 5), and the second concerned DD-state transitions. A total of 880 simulations were run to represent the combination of the following 5 scenarios: (1) housing (concrete vs. textured), (2) hygiene (2 different scraping frequencies), (3) the existence of preventive trimming, (4) different thresholds of DD prevalence detected and from which a collective footbath is applied to treat DD, and (5) farmer's ability to detect lameness (detection rate). Housing, hygiene, and trimming scenarios were associated with risk factors applied for each foot disorder etiologies. The footbath and lameness detection scenarios both determined the treatment setup and the policy of herd observance. The economic evaluation outcome was the gross margin per year. A linear regression model was run to estimate the cost per lame cow (lameness score ≥3), per case of DD and per week of a cow's medium lameness duration. The bioeconomic model reproduced a lameness prevalence varying from 26 to 98% depending on the management scenario, demonstrating a high capacity of the model to represent the diversity of the field situations. Digital dermatitis represented half of the total lameness cases, followed by interdigital dermatitis (28%), SU (19%), WLD (13%), and interdigital phlegmon (4%). The housing scenarios dramatically influenced the prevalence of SU and WLD, whereas scraping frequency and threshold for footbath application mainly determined the presence of DD. Interestingly, the results showed that preventive trimming allowed a better reduction in lameness prevalence than spending time on early detection. Scraping frequency was highly associated with DD occurrence, especially with a textured floor. The regression showed that costs were homogeneous (i.e., did not change with lameness prevalence; marginal cost equals average cost). A lame cow and a DD-affected cow cost €307.50 ± 8.40 (SD) and €391.80 ± 10.0 per year on average, respectively. The results also showed a cost of €12.10 ± 0.36 per week-cow lameness. The present estimation is the first to account for interactions between etiologies and for the complex DD dynamics with all the M-stage transitions, bringing a high level of accuracy to the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolphe Robcis
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France.
| | - Ahmed Ferchiou
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Mehdi Berrada
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Youba Ndiaye
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Nicolas Herman
- VetEconomics, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France
| | - Guillaume Lhermie
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France; Department of Production Animal Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Didier Raboisson
- CIRAD, UMR ASTRE, Montpellier, France, ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 31300 Toulouse, France
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Arunvipas P, Setkit T, Wongsanit J, Rukkwamsuk T, Homwong N, Sangmalee A. Effect of claw blocks on the healing duration and lesion severities of claw lesions in lame cows in Western Thailand. Vet World 2023; 16:258-263. [PMID: 37042010 PMCID: PMC10082725 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2023.258-263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Lameness is a major complication in dairy cattle affecting health and milk production. Several factors are found to contribute to this condition and specific treatments are required, including the process of claw trimming. The elevation of the claw, such as with the application of a claw block, was reported to be beneficial in the more severe cases. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of a claw block on claw lesions of lame cows in dairy farms in Western Thailand.
Materials and Methods: Locomotion scores of 376 dairy cows were determined by a veterinarian using a scale of 1–5 (1 = normal; 5 = severely lame) at the time of the visit. Cows with a score of 3 or greater were defined as clinically lame. In total, 134 clinically lame cows from 11 dairy farms in the Kanchanaburi and Ratchaburi provinces were included in the analysis. Claw lesions included a white line abscess, bruised sole, sole ulcer, sole abscess, white line separate, and double soles. Wooden or rubber claw blocks were applied to the unaffected claw of the same hoof as the injured claw of 116 cows, which were classified as the treatment cases, and 18 cows were left untreated and classified as the control cases. Each cow was checked on every week of the healing process for 2 months unless the cow was culled earlier. Survival analysis was based on the Kaplan–Meier estimator and Cox Proportional Hazard regression.
Results: The median healing time for lame cows with and without claw blocks was 21 and 36 days, respectively. After adjusting for the lesion severity and type, the lame cows with and without a claw block had hazard ratios of 2.16 and 3.08, respectively. The healing times between the four lesion types in cows with a claw block were not significantly different. The healing time was longer in lame cows, with a severity score of 4.
Conclusion: The results from this study reveal that the treatment of lame cows with claw blocks promoted the healing capacity of claw lesions after claw trimming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pipat Arunvipas
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Teerachad Setkit
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Jaturong Wongsanit
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Theera Rukkwamsuk
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Nitipong Homwong
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture at Kamphaeng Saen, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Anawat Sangmalee
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
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8
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Barden M, Anagnostopoulos A, Griffiths BE, Bedford C, Winters M, Li B, Coffey M, Psifidi A, Banos G, Oikonomou G. Association between a genetic index for lameness resistance and the incidence of claw horn lesions in Holstein cows. Vet Rec 2022; 191:e1632. [PMID: 35468242 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to determine the association between the lameness advantage genetic index and four outcomes: sole haemorrhage (SH), sole ulcers (SU), white line lesions (WL), and lameness during mobility scoring. METHODS We enrolled 2352 Holstein cows from four predominantly housed dairy herds in the UK. Cows were mobility scored and foot lesions recorded at four time points from before calving to late lactation. Cows were genotyped and genetic indexes were assigned to each cow following national genetic evaluations. Lameness records and genetic indexes were matched for 2107 cows. Four separate multivariable logistic regression models, which included farm and parity as covariables, were used to quantify the association between the lameness advantage index and whether animals were affected by SH, SU, WL, or lameness. RESULTS The odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for one-point increases in the lameness advantage index were 0.79 (0.72-0.86), 0.68 (0.59-0.78), 0.94 (0.84-1.04), and 0.82 (0.74-0.91) for SH, SU, WL, and lameness, respectively. The same trends were present when the sire's lameness advantage index was evaluated in place of the animal's own, although the strength of this association was generally weaker. CONCLUSION The lameness advantage index is associated with SH, SU, and lameness, therefore selection on the lameness advantage index could be considered in herds aiming to reduce lameness. Where genomic testing of heifers is not conducted, sire lameness advantage index may still be effective to reduce SH and SU incidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Barden
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, UK
| | - Alkiviadis Anagnostopoulos
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, UK
| | - Bethany E Griffiths
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, UK
| | - Cherril Bedford
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, UK
| | - Marco Winters
- Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, UK
| | - Bingjie Li
- Animal & Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Roslin Institute Building, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Mike Coffey
- Animal & Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Roslin Institute Building, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Androniki Psifidi
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Georgios Banos
- Animal & Veterinary Sciences, SRUC, Roslin Institute Building, Easter Bush, Midlothian, UK
| | - Georgios Oikonomou
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Liverpool, UK
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Jensen KC, Oehm AW, Campe A, Stock A, Woudstra S, Feist M, Müller KE, Hoedemaker M, Merle R. German Farmers' Awareness of Lameness in Their Dairy Herds. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:866791. [PMID: 35400109 PMCID: PMC8987770 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.866791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lameness is one of the most challenging problems in the dairy industry. Control is impeded because farmers often underestimate the number of lame cows. The objectives of this study were to assess German farmers' awareness of lameness in their herds and to determine the associations between farmers' awareness and their management practices, farm characteristics as well as with farmers' education, personality traits and attitudes. As a part of a large cross-sectional study, veterinarians visited farms in three structurally different regions of Germany: north (n = 253), east (n = 252), and south (n = 260). The cows (n = 84,998) were scored for locomotion and farmers were asked to estimate the number of cows that were lame or did not walk soundly. The ratio of farmers' estimated prevalence and the veterinarians' observed prevalence (Farmer's Detection Index; FDI) was calculated. The median lameness prevalence assessed by the veterinarians was 23.1, 39.1, and 23.2%, and the median prevalence of lame cows estimated by the farmers was 9.5, 9.5, and 7.1% in the north, east, and south, respectively. On average, farmers were conscious of only 45.3% (north), 24.0% (east), and 30.0% (south) of their lame cows. Farmers managing their herds according to organic principles had a higher FDI than farmers who managed their herds conventionally. Surprisingly, no significant associations between FDI and factors concerning claw health management could be detected. Therefore, increased awareness did not seem to be necessarily linked to improved management. Moreover, the FDI was not significantly associated with farmers' education or herd size. In the south, more extraverted farmers had a lower FDI. Those farmers who totally agreed with the statement, “I am satisfied with my herd's health,” had a lower FDI than farmers who disagreed or were undecided. Moreover, farmers who disagreed or were undecided with the statement, “It affects me to see a cow in pain” had a higher FDI than those farmers who agreed to the statement. The results indicate that poor awareness of lameness was linked to the farmers' attitude and personality. Therefore, new approaches concerning the consultation regarding lameness control, such as the use of Motivational Interviewing, might be useful in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Charlotte Jensen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- *Correspondence: Katharina Charlotte Jensen
| | - Andreas W. Oehm
- Clinic for Ruminants With Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Amely Campe
- Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing (IBEI), WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training for Health at the Human-Animal-Environment Interface, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Annegret Stock
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Svenja Woudstra
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Melanie Feist
- Clinic for Ruminants With Ambulatory and Herd Health Services, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Kerstin Elisabeth Müller
- Clinic for Ruminants and Swine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martina Hoedemaker
- Clinic for Cattle, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Pedersen SIL, Huxley JN, Hudson CD, Green MJ, Bell NJ. Preventive hoof trimming in dairy cattle: Determining current practices and identifying future research areas. Vet Rec 2022; 190:e1267. [PMID: 34997601 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extent to which preventive hoof trimming is implemented on Great Britain's (GB) dairy farms is unknown. The aims of this study were to determine common practices and capture producers' input on key areas that require further research. METHODS An online survey was conducted over a 4-week period from March to April 2017. RESULTS A total of 338 valid survey responses were received. The majority of farmers undertook preventive hoof trimming (82.4%), and this was significantly positively associated with increased herd yield (p < 0.001). Drying off was the most common time trimming was undertaken, with 72.2% of farmers who implemented preventive trimming doing so at this point in the management cycle. Of those undertaking preventive trimming, 46.4% solely used an external hoof trimmer, 31.7% solely used farm staff and the remainder (21.9%) used a combination of operators. Four over-arching themes were identified within the key research questions; when to trim, why we should trim, how to trim and who to trim. The most frequent questions related to optimal trimming timing, frequency and method. CONCLUSION This study highlighted that preventive hoof trimming is a widespread practice on GB dairy farms, undertaken by both external hoof trimmers and farm staff. Despite this, farmers still want to know when they should undertake preventive hoof trimming and which technique they should use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara I L Pedersen
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Jonathan N Huxley
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Chris D Hudson
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Martin J Green
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
| | - Nicholas J Bell
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
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11
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A modified functional hoof trimming technique reduces the risk of lameness and hoof lesion prevalence in housed dairy cattle. Prev Vet Med 2021; 195:105463. [PMID: 34416653 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2021.105463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare the impact of the functional hoof trimming (HT) method to an adaptation that results in increased modelling of the weight bearing claw on time to lameness and lesion prevalence in housed dairy cows. A total of 418 non-lame cows at early and late lactation were enrolled in the study and randomly allocated into 3 groups: functional HT (TRIM1), adaptation method (TRIM2), and an untrimmed group (CON). Locomotion scores (LS; 5-point scale) and animal-based welfare measures were assessed monthly from enrolment until the following 270 days in milk. Cows were considered lame when 2 consecutive LS = 3, or any assessment with a score of 4 or 5. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to evaluate the difference in time to lameness between the groups. Multivariable CC Cox regression models were fitted to assess associations between covariates and time to lameness event, while associated factors for lesion prevalence were estimated using logistic regression models. The incidence rate of lameness was 29.3 cases/100/month, with corresponding rates of 28.7, 15.8 and 42.8 cases/100/months, in TRIM1, TRIM2 and CON, respectively. Time to first lameness event was higher in TRIM2 (mean ± S.E; 8.26 ± 0.16, P = 0.03) than CON (7.32 ± 0.2) and tended to be higher than TRIM1 (7.83 ± 0.19; P = 0.07). The risk of new lameness event was higher in cows with low BCS (≤2.5) (Hazard ratio; HR = 1.5; 95 % CI 1.1-2.1), while trimming all feet was a protective factor (HR = 0.58; 95 % CI 0.38-0.90). The prevalence of hoof lesions in the study population was 36.3 %, with the highest prevalence in CON (45.6 %), followed by TRIM1 (34.6 %) and TRIM2 (28.1 %). Seventy-eight per cent of hoof lesions were non-infectious and the majority of cows with hoof lesion in TRIM1 (72.3 %), CON (74.6 %) and TRIM2 (55.6 %) were lame. The odds of having a non-infectious hoof lesion were higher in CON (OR = 2.1; 95 % CI 1.2-3.7) compared to TRIM2, and in cows with hock injury (OR = 3.1; 95 % 1.1-9.7) relative to healthy hock, and tended to be higher in cows with low BCS (P = 0.09) relative to those with moderate BCS. Our results suggest that the adaptation to the functional method reduced the risk of lameness during lactation, however, proper management of under-conditioned cows is equally important.
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12
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Khansefid M, Haile-Mariam M, Pryce JE. Including milk production, conformation, and functional traits in multivariate models for genetic evaluation of lameness. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:10905-10920. [PMID: 34275628 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-20074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Lameness is a serious health and welfare issue that can negatively affect the economic performance of cows, especially on pasture-based dairy farms. However, most genetic predictions (GP) of lameness have low accuracy because lameness data are often incomplete as data are collected voluntarily by farmers in countries such as Australia. The objective of this study was to find routinely measured traits that are correlated with lameness and use them in multivariate evaluation models to improve the accuracy of GP for lameness. We used health events and treatments associated with lameness recorded by Australian farmers from 2002 to early 2019. The lameness incidence rates in Holstein and Jersey cows were 3.3% and 4.6%, respectively. We analyzed the records of 36 other traits (milk production, conformation, fertility, and survival traits) to estimate genetic correlations with lameness. The estimated heritability ± standard error (and repeatability ± standard error) for lameness in both Holstein and Jersey breeds were very low: 0.007 ± 0.002 (and 0.029 ± 0.002) and 0.005 ± 0.003 (and 0.027 ± 0.006), respectively, in univariate sire models. For the GP models, we tested including measurements of overall type to prediction models for Holsteins, stature and body length for Jersey, and milk yield and fertility traits for both breeds. The average accuracy of GP, calculated from prediction error variances, were 0.38 and 0.24 for Holstein and Jersey sires, respectively, when estimated using univariate sire models and both increased to 0.43 using multivariate sire models. In conclusion, we found that the accuracy of GP for lameness could be improved by including genetically correlated traits in a multivariate model. However, to further improve the accuracy of predictions of lameness, precise identification and recording incidences of hoof or leg disorder, or large-scale recording of locomotion and claw scores by trained personnel should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Khansefid
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia.
| | - M Haile-Mariam
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
| | - J E Pryce
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia; School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia
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13
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Tunstall J, Mueller K, Grove-White D, Oultram JWH, Higgins HM. Lameness in Beef Cattle: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Survey of On-Farm Practices and Approaches. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:657299. [PMID: 34150885 PMCID: PMC8212986 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.657299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cattle lameness is a concern to the United Kingdom (UK) cattle industry, negatively impacting upon welfare and production. Previous work involving one small study (n = 21) has identified that some UK beef farmers underestimate lameness prevalence, but also that farmers vary in their perception of the impact of lameness. Knowledge and skills of farmers were identified as a potential concern, and farmer-reported barriers were identified. However, the extent to which these views can be extrapolated is unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to produce descriptive results of UK beef farmer lameness-related activities concerning lameness identification, examination, treatment, and prevention. Questionnaires were circulated online and via post. Postal questionnaires were sent to registered Approved Finishing Units (a specific cohort of beef fattening units subject to strict biosecurity measures as part of UK bovine tuberculosis control) and a stratified sample of all registered beef enterprises in England and Wales. Online questionnaires were circulated on social media and via targeted emails asking selected industry bodies and veterinary practices to distribute to farmers. Descriptive results were produced, and thematic analysis was performed on free text responses. There were 532 usable responses, with most farmers self-reporting their current lameness prevalence as zero (mean 1.2%, range 0–20%). Most respondents did not locomotion score cattle, and most reported that it was not safe to examine feet. Most farmers did not use a foot bath, but of those who did, formaldehyde was the most commonly used product. Some farmers reported use of antibiotic foot baths. Most farmers reported dealing with lame animals within 48 h, but some only dealt with severe cases, and some felt that lame animals would get better by themselves. To deal with animals that have an ongoing lameness problem, transportation to slaughter was considered an option by 35% of farmers. It is worth noting, however, that the majority of lame animals would be precluded from transport under UK legislation. Farmers reported staff shortages, as well as a lack of time, training, and knowledge as barriers to lameness prevention and control. Overall, these results suggest that farmers may be underestimating lameness. Diagnosis is likely to be challenging, with unsafe facilities for lifting feet. The reported high threshold by some farmers for attending to a lame animal is a cause for concern, negatively impacting upon animal welfare, but this is also likely to have negative consequences for animal performance and farm profitability. Many participants in this study expressed a desire for farmer training in several aspects relating to lameness prevention and control, and this represents an opportunity for further knowledge exchange regarding lameness in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay Tunstall
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Karin Mueller
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Dai Grove-White
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne W H Oultram
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Mary Higgins
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
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Afonso JS, Bruce M, Keating P, Raboisson D, Clough H, Oikonomou G, Rushton J. Profiling Detection and Classification of Lameness Methods in British Dairy Cattle Research: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:542. [PMID: 32974403 PMCID: PMC7468474 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lameness is a serious concern in the dairy sector, reflecting its high incidence and impact on animal welfare and productivity. Research has provided figures on its frequency using different methodologies, making it difficult to compare results and hindering farm-level decision-making. The study's objectives were to determine the frequency levels of lameness in British dairy cattle through a meta-analysis approach, and to understand the chronological patterns of how lameness cases are detected and classified in scientific research. A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA-P guidelines for article selection. Random-effects models estimated the pooled frequency measure of lameness with heterogeneity managed through subgroup analysis and meta-regression. Sixty-eight papers were identified, 50 included prevalence and 36 incidence data. The pooled prevalence of lameness in British dairy cattle was estimated at 29.5% (95% CI 26.7-32.4%) whilst all-cause lameness incidence rate indicated 30.9 cases of lameness per 100 cow-years (95% CI 24.5-37.9). The pooled cause-specific lameness incidence rate per 100 cow-years was 66.1 (95% CI 24.1-128.8) for white line disease, 53.2 (95% CI 20.5-101.2) for sole ulcer, 53.6 (95% CI 19.2-105.34) for digital dermatitis, with 51.9 (95% CI 9.3-129.2) attributable to other lameness-related lesions. Heterogeneity levels remained high. Sixty-nine papers contributed to a chronological overview of lameness data source. Although the AHDB Dairy mobility scoring system (MSS) was launched in the UK in 2008 and adopted shortly after by the British Dairy sector as the standard tool for assessing lameness, other methods are used depending on the investigator. Automated lameness detection systems may offer a solution for the subjective nature of MSSs, yet it was utilized in one study only. Despite the recognition of under-reporting of lameness from farm records 22 (31.9%) studies used this data source. The diversity of lameness data collection methods and sources was a key finding. It limits the understanding of lameness burden and the refinement of policy making for lameness. Standardizing case definition and research methods would improve knowledge of and ability to manage lameness. Regardless of the measurement method lameness in British dairy cattle is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Sucena Afonso
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Mieghan Bruce
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Patrick Keating
- Médecins Sans Frontières - OCA, Manson Unit, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Helen Clough
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - George Oikonomou
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Rushton
- Department of Livestock and One Health, Institute of Infection, Veterinary & Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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15
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Kaniyamattam K, Hertl J, Lhermie G, Tasch U, Dyer R, Gröhn YT. Cost benefit analysis of automatic lameness detection systems in dairy herds: A dynamic programming approach. Prev Vet Med 2020; 178:104993. [PMID: 32334285 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2020.104993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological data establish that lameness is second only to mastitis as the dairy industry's most prevalent and costly animal welfare issue. Using an automatic lameness detection (ALD) system in which continuous, accurate detection is coupled with proper treatment, is key for reducing economic losses due to lameness. It is reasonable to assume that the cost of lameness would vary with its severity. Therefore, our first objective was to estimate the cost of different lameness severity levels as a function of milk production, lameness risk, conception probability, and treatment cost using a dynamic programming (DP) model. Our second objective was to conduct a cost benefit analysis for ALD systems which can reduce production losses through early detection and treatment of lameness, when compared to visual-detection (VD; i.e., performed by humans) systems. The default production loss parameters for the VD system used as inputs to the DP model were either sourced from the literature or were estimated based on data from a field trial. The production loss parameters for the ALD system used as inputs to the DP model were based on extrapolations of parameter values used for the VD system. The profit per present cow per year under assumed expenses and revenues decreased from $426.05 (when lameness incidence was assumed to be 0%) to $389.69 when lameness incidence was 19.5 %. Out of the 19.5 % lameness incidence in our default scenario, 9.8 % were moderate cases and 9.7 % were severe cases. Average cost of lameness was $36.36 at 19.5 % incidence. Average cost of lameness increased with increased incidence and was respectively $82.05, $195.05, and $286.87 at the low, medium, and high incidence scenarios. We used an operational framework which compared the lameness costs between the VD and ALD systems with 25 %, 50 % and 75 % net avoided costs (NAC) for the 10 year lifespan of the ALD system, at default, low, medium and high lameness incidence scenarios. The net return per cow per year from using an ALD system over a VD system was $13, at low incidence and 25 % NAC. The net return per cow per year for the ALD system was as high as $99 at high incidence and 75 % NAC. Out of 351 (3 system prices, 3 system efficiencies, 3 levels of lameness incidence and 13 different herd sizes) scenarios tested, 295 resulted in a net profit within the system lifespan of 10 years, thus justifying the investment in ALD systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Kaniyamattam
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. USA.
| | - J Hertl
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. USA
| | - G Lhermie
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. USA
| | - U Tasch
- Step Analysis, LLC. 5 Ruby Field Ct., Baltimore, MD 21209. USA
| | - R Dyer
- Department of Animal and Food Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19717. USA
| | - Y T Gröhn
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853. USA
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16
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Ranjbar S, Rabiee AR, Ingenhoff L, House JK. Farmers' perceptions and approaches to detection, treatment and prevention of lameness in pasture-based dairy herds in New South Wales, Australia. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:264-269. [PMID: 32157687 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The objective of this study was to investigate farmers' perception of lameness in comparison to the estimated prevalence of lameness in NSW pasture-based dairies to evaluate farmers' perceptions and approaches to detection, treatment and prevention of lameness. METHODS Across-sectional study was conducted on 62 pasture-based dairy farms across NSW, Australia. The prevalence of lameness in these farms was estimated using locomotion scoring (1-4 scale). A survey was also conducted, using a questionnaire and face-to-face interview, to explore farmers' perceived prevalence of lameness and approaches to treatment and prevention. RESULTS The prevalence of lameness estimated by farmers was 3.7 times less (mean: 5%; range 0% to 26%) than that determined by locomotion scoring (mean: 19.1%; range 5.0%-44.5%). Approaches to treatment included antimicrobial therapy, hoof inspection with or without application of wooden blocks. In 28% of the farms, the lame cows were managed by farmers or farm staff with no official training in treatment of lame cows. The mean interval from detection of lameness to examination of the affected hoof was almost 55 hours (range 2-720 hours). A very low percentage of farms kept lameness records or implemented lameness preventive strategies such as footbaths and prophylactic foot trimming. CONCLUSIONS Farmers and farm managers were found to underestimate the prevalence of lameness which could be due to the low level of awareness and can contribute to subsequent lack of implementation of prophylactic procedures and preventive management strategies for lameness. These findings accentuate the need to improve farmers' ability to detect lame cows and to emphasise the importance of recording in order to facilitate the management of lameness in dairy herds.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ranjbar
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
| | - A R Rabiee
- Rabiee Consulting, Horsley, New South Wales, 2530, Australia
| | - L Ingenhoff
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
| | - J K House
- Livestock Veterinary Teaching and Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camden, New South Wales, 2570, Australia
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Abdel Maksoud MKM. Normal anatomic reference of pastern and coffin joints in Egyptian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): A compared atlas of cross-sectional anatomy, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. Anat Histol Embryol 2020; 49:290-298. [PMID: 31910304 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe normal magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomographic anatomy of pastern and coffin joints in Egyptian buffalo using cadaveric distal limbs. This study was achieved using twelve fresh cadaveric distal limbs from adult healthy buffaloes of both sexes. These cadaveric limbs were scanned using a 1 Tesla MRI scanner and CT scanner, injected with red latex, frozen at -20°C for 1 week, and then sectioned into sagittal, dorsal and transverse slices. The obtained MR and CT images were selected to be matched with their corresponding anatomical cross-sections for identification and evaluation of the clinically correlated anatomical structures of the pastern and coffin joints. The difference in signal intensities on CT and MRI scans amongst the tissues allowed clear differentiation of major bone and soft tissue structures of the pastern and coffin joints. CT provided a high spatial resolution of bone and soft tissue structures, however, MRI allowed a better and higher resolution and definition between soft tissues. The current study provided a normal CT and MRI anatomic reference which could help veterinary clinicians for interpretation and diagnosis of the clinically affected pastern and coffin joints in buffalo.
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18
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Influence of Lameness on the Lying Behaviour of Zero-Grazed Lactating Jersey Dairy Cattle Housed in Straw Yards. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9100829. [PMID: 31635057 PMCID: PMC6826844 DOI: 10.3390/ani9100829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Thirty-five lactating Jersey cows were recruited to the study. They were grouped according to locomotion score (LS), where low scores indicate normal gait. LS-1 (n = 12), LS-2 (n = 12) and LS-3 (n = 11) were used. Locomotion scores were balanced for parity and stage of lactation. Lying behaviour was recorded using IceTag™ data loggers attached to the cows for four consecutive days. The study animals remained in the straw based yards with grooved concrete flooring throughout the duration of the study. All data were normally distributed and assessed using a one-way ANOVA with a post hoc Tukey test. There were no statistically significant differences between locomotion score and the time spent lying, active and standing of zero-grazed lactating Jersey dairy cattle housed on straw yards. Lame cows (LS-3) had significantly shorter lying bouts than sound cows (LS-1) (34 min vs. 42 min, respectively). There has been limited research to date measuring the lying behaviour of cattle on straw and into the Jersey breed. The cows had longer than expected standing times and an increased frequency of lying bouts. This may have been attributed to the stocking density in which the cows were kept. We also reported a prevalence of lameness within the herd of 38%.
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19
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Daros RR, Eriksson HK, Weary DM, von Keyserlingk MAG. Lameness during the dry period: Epidemiology and associated factors. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:11414-11427. [PMID: 31563310 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Lameness has been extensively studied in lactating cows, whereas few studies have reported on lameness during the dry period. We conducted a prospective longitudinal study to describe the epidemiology of lameness during the dry period and to identify risk factors associated with onset, cure, and chronic cases of lameness. A total of 455 cows from 6 freestall commercial dairy farms were enrolled at 9 wk before calving and gait scored weekly until calving using a 5-point scale. A subset of cows was also followed fortnightly after calving to measure the association between lameness during the dry period and lameness during early lactation. Body condition score (BCS) was assessed in a 5-point scale using increments of 0.5. Hoof-trimming records, parity, and previous lactation milk production were retrieved from farm's database. Cows were considered sound when 2 consecutive scores were ≤2 and lame when 2 consecutive scores = 3, or any assessment with score >3; when in a sequence of scores only one score = 3 (or ≤2), the cow was considered sound (or alternatively lame). Following this lameness definition, we derived weekly lameness status for each cow and calculated the number of new cases of lameness, the number of cure cases and the number of chronic cases. The incidence rate of lameness cases during the dry period was 8.2 lameness cases/100 cow per wk, whereas cure rate was 7.1 cure cases/100 cow per wk; at the end of the dry period 50% of cows had developed lameness and 36% were cured. Multilevel logistic regression models using farm as random effect were fitted to assess (1) the association between being lame in wk 2 or 8 postcalving with being lame in the last week precalving, (2) risk factors for lameness onset, (3) risk factors for lameness cure, and (4) risk factors for chronic lameness. Cows that were lame in the week immediately before calving were more likely to be lame in wk 2 and 8 after calving. We found that the interaction between parity and hoof-trimming before dry-off was associated with lameness onset; primiparous cows that were trimmed before dry-off had lower odds of developing lameness, whereas the opposite was found for multiparous cows. The same interaction was also associated with the odds of chronic lameness. Cows that were diagnosed with noninfectious hoof lesions compared with cows that were not diagnosed with hoof lesions before dry-off, and cows that had BCS <3 compared with cows with BCS 3.0 to 3.5 at dry-off had higher odds of chronic lameness. Conversely, primiparous cows and cows with BCS 3.0 to 3.5 had higher odds of curing lameness during the dry period. Our results suggest that the dry period may be a period of high risk for lameness development and that hoof-trimming before dry-off may not be effective for all cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruan R Daros
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Hanna K Eriksson
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Marina A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada V6T 1Z4.
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Sharma A, Phillips CJC. Lameness in Sheltered Cows and Its Association with Cow and Shelter Attributes. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9060360. [PMID: 31208119 PMCID: PMC6616525 DOI: 10.3390/ani9060360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The sheltering of cows in shelters is a traditional practice in India. Old, abandoned and unproductive dairy cows are housed in shelters as cow slaughter is not legally permitted in most states. The welfare assessment of these old, abandoned, infertile, unproductive and rescued cows was carried out based on the measurement of cow-based and resource-based welfare parameters. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to explore the prevalence of lameness in these sheltered cows and the risk factors associated with it. Fifty-four shelters in six states of India were visited and 1620 cows were clinically examined for lameness and measurements of other animal and resource-based welfare parameters. The prevalence of lameness in these shelters was less than that recorded in dairy cows in conventional Indian farming systems. Lameness was associated with several cow factors: inadequate body conformation, lesions on the hock and carpal joints, dirty udders, overgrown claws and diarrhea. There was evidence of an association with an absence of bedding and a steep gradient of the floor. Improvement in the feeding practices, attention towards cleanliness, and improvements in shelter flooring may reduce the prevalence of lameness and improve cow welfare in the shelters. Abstract The sheltering of old, unproductive and abandoned cows in traditional cow shelters, known as gaushalas, has been practiced in India since ancient times. Cows are kept in these shelters until they die of natural causes. The welfare of the cows in these shelters was assessed through a cross-sectional study of 54 cow shelters in six states of India. A total of 1620 cows were examined to assess the prevalence of lameness in these cows, and the associated risk factors for lameness were identified through the measurement of animal-based and resource-based welfare indicators. The overall lameness prevalence was 4.2%. The majority (86%) had mild to moderate hock joint swellings but no or only mild carpal joint injuries. Approximately one-half had mild to moderate hock joint hair loss and most were free of hock joint ulcerations. Claw overgrowth was present in almost one half of the cows. Lameness prevalence was positively correlated with coat dirtiness, hock and carpal joint lesions, diarrhea and claw overgrowth scores. In a multivariate analysis, lameness prevalence increased as the Body Condition Score (BCS) decreased and was associated with increased udder dirtiness, the ulceration of the hock joint, carpal joint injuries and claw overgrowth. Resource-based indicators measured at the shelter level suggested that an absence of bedding in the sheds and an increase in the gradient of the shed flooring increased lameness. Addressing the principle risk factors identified for lameness in the sheltered cows (low body condition, dirty udders, lesions on the hock and carpal joints, overgrown claws, and a steep floor gradient) may help to reduce this serious animal welfare problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Sharma
- Centre for Animal Welfare and Ethics, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia.
| | - Clive J C Phillips
- Centre for Animal Welfare and Ethics, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton QLD 4343, Australia.
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21
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Smith J, van Winden S. Risk of Lameness in Dairy Cows with Paratuberculosis Infection. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9060339. [PMID: 31185685 PMCID: PMC6617085 DOI: 10.3390/ani9060339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Johne’s disease (JD) is an important disease affecting cows in the UK dairy industry, as is lameness, and both cause milk production losses and cows losing weight. The aim of this work was to see if cows with JD were more likely to be lame and if so, what the order of occurrence of these two events is. We looked at the JD and lameness records of two farms and paired 98 JD cows (half of them with a high response to the test for JD) and compared them with herd mates. We evaluated the timing and the proportion of lameness in JD-positive cows compared to their controls and proportion of lameness before and after the first JD-positive test. JD cows turn lame on average three months earlier and are lame 2.7 times more often than non-JD cows. Further, high positive cows were 2.8 times more likely to develop lameness after JD diagnosis compared to medium positive cows. Results of this study suggest that there is a link between JD and lameness and that JD precedes lameness. The underlying mechanisms for this association remain unknown and were not the scope of this study. Abstract Johne’s disease (JD) is an important disease affecting the UK dairy industry, as is cattle lameness. An association between JD and lameness has been suggested; however, little evidence exists to support this. The purpose of this study was to determine if cows affected by JD were more likely to be lame and if so, what the temporal association is. Retrospective dairy cow mobility and JD status (based on milk ELISA) data were obtained from two farms of 98 JD cows (49 high and 49 medium positive) and their matched controls. We evaluated the timing and the proportion of (chronic) lameness in JD-positive cows versus controls and proportion of lameness before and after the first ELISA positive test. Compared to their controls, JD cows are lame more often (Odds Ratio = 2.7 (95% Confidence Interval = 1.2–6.0) p = 0.017) and became lame on average three months earlier (p = 0.010). High positive cows were more likely to develop lameness after seroconversion (OR = 2.8 (95% CI = 1.1–7.5), p = 0.038) versus medium positive cows. Results of this study suggest that there is a link between JD and lameness and that JD precedes lameness. The underlying mechanisms for this association remain unknown and were not the scope of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Smith
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield AL9 7TA, Hertfordshire, UK.
| | - Steven van Winden
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, Hatfield AL9 7TA, Hertfordshire, UK.
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22
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Atkins CA, Pond KR, Madsen CK, Moorman VJ, Roman-Muniz IN, Archibeque SL, Grandin T. Sensor analysis and initial assessment of detectable first hoof contacts and last break-overs as unique signal fluctuations for equine gait analysis. Transl Anim Sci 2019; 3:1389-1398. [PMID: 32704902 PMCID: PMC7200566 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txz089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the control study was to assess 2 prominent fluctuations in a single optical signal as being either a true first hoof contact or a last break-over based on descriptive measures. The study builds on initial findings from a preliminary investigation of the embedded-optical-base system’s (EOBS) capabilities in signal capturing and feasibility as potential alternative to existing gait technologies, such as piezoelectric (e.g., load cell) systems. Hoof contacts and break-overs were measured (0 to 1 au; arbitrary units) using a 2.4-m (length) × 0.9-m (width) platform containing 1 EOBS. Three mixed-breed horses (n = 3) were injected with saline or either 100 IU or 200 IU Botox (i.e., onabotulinumtoxinA) with a 2.5-mL final volume. Injections were made into the deep digital flexor muscle at the motor end plates, with electromyography and ultrasound guidance. Horses were observed for 3 time points (pre-, post-, and recovery test days) over the span of a 4-mo period. Signal fluctuations [i.e., amplitude of hoof impacts based on true first hoof contacts (ΔSTS) and true last break-overs (ΔSTL)] and kinematics [i.e., complete gait pass (CGP) time duration (T)] were recorded from each horse. Visual observations and video analysis were used for determining gait pattern categories. Individual horse measurements were analyzed for each trial, compared with video data and classified. Comparison of primary signal fluctuations (i.e., ΔSTS vs. ΔSTL; forelimb vs. hindlimb) exhibited significant differences between hoof contacts and break-overs (P < 0.05). Right and left forelimb hoof contacts and hindlimb break-overs were not significantly different (P = 0.966; 0.063 ± 0.135; Estimate ± SE; P = 0.606; 0.176 ± 0.142; Estimate ± SE, respectively). Additionally, treatment vs. saline forelimbs did not exhibit significant difference (P = 0.7407; −0.098 ± 0.279; Estimate ± SE). Overall, data showed that the EOBS can collect repeatable and unique primary signal fluctuations as prominent and different gait measurements providing evidence to further development and research of the sensing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colton A Atkins
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Kevin R Pond
- Paul Engler College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, West Texas A&M, Canyon, TX
| | - Christi K Madsen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
| | - Valerie J Moorman
- Equine Orthopaedic Research Center, Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Ivette N Roman-Muniz
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Shawn L Archibeque
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Temple Grandin
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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Abstract
Abstract
The serum concentration of certain acute phase proteins significantly increases during various pathological conditions in cattle. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of claw disorders etiology on the concentrations of two major acute phase proteins in dairy cattle: haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid protein A (SAA). Fifty dairy cows with claw pathology were included. Fourteen clinically healthy heifers served as controls. The animals were subdivided in 5 groups according to the pathological findings on their claws: 1. Heel horn erosion (HE), 2. Acute laminitis (AL), 3. Sole ulcer (SU), 4. Digital dermatitis (DD) and 5. White line separation (WLS). Hp and SAA concentrations were measured in serum samples using commercial ELISA kits. Higher concentrations of both Hp and SAA were found in the AL and SU groups (p<0.01) compared to the HE, DD and WLS and control groups. Dairy cows in the DD group had higher (p<0.05) Hp and SAA concentrations than the HE and WLS groups and the controls. The serum values between the HE, WLS and the control group did not differ significantly. The presented results indicate that the claw diseases are associated with a systemic acute phase response. Hp and SAA could be used as valuable biomarkers for early detection of claw diseases in dairy cows.
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24
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Abdellatif AM, Hamed MA, El-Shafaey ES, Eldoumani H. Normal magnetic resonance anatomy of the hind foot of Egyptian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis
): A correlative low-field T1- and T2-weighted MRI and sectional anatomy atlas. Anat Histol Embryol 2018; 47:599-608. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Abdellatif
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Mansoura University; Mansoura Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Hamed
- Department of Surgery, Anesthesiology and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Aswan University; Aswan Egypt
| | - El-Sayed El-Shafaey
- Department of Surgery, Anesthesiology and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Mansoura University; Mansoura Egypt
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine; Qassim University; Qassim Saudi Arabia
| | - Haitham Eldoumani
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Mansoura University; Mansoura Egypt
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25
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Teodorowicz M, Hendriks WH, Wichers HJ, Savelkoul HFJ. Immunomodulation by Processed Animal Feed: The Role of Maillard Reaction Products and Advanced Glycation End-Products (AGEs). Front Immunol 2018; 9:2088. [PMID: 30271411 PMCID: PMC6146089 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The immune system provides host protection to infection with pathogenic organisms, while at the same time providing tolerance upon exposure to harmless antigens. Thus, an impaired immune function is associated with increased susceptibility to infections with increased disease severity and thereby necessitating the therapeutic use of antibiotics. Livestock performance and feed efficiency, in addition to their health status, are dependent on the microbial load of their gut, the barrier function of the intestinal epithelium and the activity of the mucosal immune system, all of which can be modulated by dietary components. The majority of feeds that are consumed in pets and livestock have been processed. Processing promotes a non-enzymatic reaction between proteins and sugars called Maillard reaction (MR). Maillard reaction products (MRPs) and advanced Maillard reaction products (AGEs) determine taste, smell, and color of many food products therefore the MR is highly relevant for the feed industry. MRPs interact with different types of immune receptors, including the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and immunomodulatory potential of feed proteins can be modified by Maillard reaction. This MR has become an important concern since MRPs/AGEs have been shown to contribute to increasing prevalence of diet-related chronic inflammatory states in the gut with negative health consequences and performance. The immunomodulatory effects of dietary MRPs and AGEs in livestock and pet animals are far less well-described, but widely considered to be similar to the relevant concepts and mechanisms obtained in the human field. This review will highlight immunological mechanisms underlying initiation of the innate and adaptive immune responses by MRPs/AGEs present in animal feeds, which are currently not completely understood. Bridging this knowledge gap, and taking advantage of progress in the human field, will significantly improve nutritional quality of feed and increase the prevention of diet-mediated inflammation in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Teodorowicz
- Cell Biology and Immunology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Wouter H. Hendriks
- Animal Nutrition Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Harry J. Wichers
- Food and Biobased Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Huub F. J. Savelkoul
- Cell Biology and Immunology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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26
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Griffiths BE, Grove White D, Oikonomou G. A Cross-Sectional Study Into the Prevalence of Dairy Cattle Lameness and Associated Herd-Level Risk Factors in England and Wales. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:65. [PMID: 29675419 PMCID: PMC5895762 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Lameness is one of the most pressing issues within the dairy industry; it has severe economic implications while causing a serious impact on animal welfare. A study conducted approximately 10 years ago found the within farm lameness prevalence in the UK to be 36.8%. Our objective here is to provide an update on within farm lameness prevalence in the UK, and to provide further evidence on farm level risk factors. A convenience sample of 61 dairy farms were recruited across England and Wales from September 2015 to December 2016. A single farm visit was made and the milking herd was mobility scored, as the cows exited the milking parlor after morning, afternoon, or evening milking. Information regarding the farm and management system was then collected using a short interview with the farmer followed by collection of various subjective and objective measurements of the environment. The same, trained researcher performed all animal and facility-based measures on all visits. A series of univariable analyses were conducted to evaluate the association between various risk factors and herd lameness prevalence (logit transformed). A multivariable linear regression model was then fitted. The median number of milking cows per herd was 193, ranging from 74 to 1,519 cows. The mean within farm lameness prevalence was 31.6%, ranging from 5.8 to 65.4%. In total, 14,700 cows were mobility scored with 4,145 cows found to be lame (28.2%). A number of risk factors were associated with lameness at the univariable analysis level. Categorical risk factors retained in the final model were: resting area type, collecting yard groove spacing width, whether farms were undertaking the 60- to 100-day post calving claw trimming and the frequency of footbathing in the winter. The amount of concentrates fed in the milking parlors or out of parlor feeders was also associated with lameness prevalence. The results of this study have provided an update on the UK herd lameness prevalence and have confirmed the importance of cow comfort and footbathing frequency. The association between early lactation claw trimming and reduced lameness prevalence is, to the best of our knowledge, reported for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany E Griffiths
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom.,Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Dai Grove White
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
| | - Georgios Oikonomou
- Department of Livestock Health and Welfare, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Neston, United Kingdom
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Abstract
AbstractThe overall objective of a series of experiments to investigate ‘metabolic stress’ was to examine the relationships between ‘metabolic load’, disease and other parameters associated with the welfare of the dairy cow. In the main, these used several well controlled herd based studies complimented with more basic and strategic investigations. In this paper we compare and contrast practical aspects of health and welfare in two high genetic merit herds managed at the extremes of inputs and outputs for dairy farming in south-west Scotland. The hypothesis was that high output herds would have more health and welfare problems than low input herds. Two herds (70 Holstein-Friesian cows each) at SAC Acrehead Dumfries of a similar genetic background (overall in the top 5% of UK cows by PIN and ITEM), were housed in identical buildings and tended by the same herdsman. Both herds had autumn- and spring-calving cattle. The ‘low input’ herd (LI) was given a minimum of concentrate (approx. 0.5 t per cow per year) and milked twice a day and had a restricted quota of 385 000 l. The ‘high output’ herd (HO) was managed for high yields (unrestricted quota) and was given concentrates (2 t per cow per year) and forage ad libitum and milked three times daily. In 1995-96 the sole source of winter forage was grass/clover silage (LI) or grass silage (HO) but in 1996-1998 ensiled cereal and fodder beet were included in both diets. ‘Metabolic load’ could only be inferred from overall inputs, milk outputs, weight loss, body condition score and behaviour. There were significant differences in 305-day lactation yields between herds, and season of calving especially in 1995-96 (LI autumn; 5952 l at 30 g/kg protein (P); LI spring; 5741 l, 32.5 g/kg P; HO autumn; 9541 l at 32.8 g/kg P; HO spring; 8402 l, 32.6 g/kg P). LI weight and body condition-score losses were greatest in this year and behavioural studies showed substantial differences in feeding time (HO < LI, P < 0.05) and total lying time (LI < HO; P < 0.05). However these differences were much less marked in subsequent years. There was a significant difference in the prevalence and incidence of clinical lameness between herds (HO > LI; P < 0.05) and season (autumn > spring P < 0.05) but not for mastitis or metabolic disease. An in-depth study of subclinical claw horn lesion development in first calving heifers showed significant differences between herds in 1996-97 (LI > HO, P < 0.05) but none in 1995-96. There was a significant difference for season in both years (autumn > spring, P < 0.05). Analysis of blood biochemistry parameters of samples taken at approximately 1 month after calving showed some significant differences between LI and HO generally indicating a greater ‘metabolic load’ for LI. Although the full effects of ‘metabolic load’ on immune function and reproduction are dealt with elsewhere our preliminary data showed no significant differences between herds for the former but some significant differences for the latter, in particular there were differences in aspects of the progesterone profiles between herds and more importantly between seasons. However these latter differences were not clearly reflected in conception rates. It was concluded that the hypothesis was not fully sustained and that both systems had pitfalls in terms of welfare. The three major areas causing difficulties for both systems were the need first to ensure adequate intake of forage; secondly to limit the environmental challenge to the feet and udder and finally to marry these systems to the factors limiting reproduction, primarily calving season and ability of reproduction management.
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28
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Abdelsayed M, Haile-Mariam M, Pryce J. Genetic parameters for health traits using data collected from genomic information nucleus herds. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:9643-9655. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
Lameness causes significant economic losses and serious welfare problems in dairy cows. Surveys carried out in the UK since 1960 have produced different results. In a recent survey (1989/1991) the annual incidence of lameness was put at 54.6 limb cases per 100 cows. The objective of the present survey was to measure the incidence of lameness, and type of lesions involved, in a group of typical UK herds using the Dairy Information System (DAISY).A survey was carried out using computer based dairy cow records from 17 DAISY sites (veterinary practices and farms) in southern England. Lameness records from over 150 herds were examined for lameness cases (treated by the vet or farmer) recorded between July 1995 and June 1996. Data reliability was checked via personal contacts with veterinary surgeons involved with these herds. Data for the survey were finally derived from 50 Holstein/Friesian herds (average herd size 150 cows).
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30
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Van De Gucht T, Saeys W, Van Meensel J, Van Nuffel A, Vangeyte J, Lauwers L. Farm-specific economic value of automatic lameness detection systems in dairy cattle: From concepts to operational simulations. J Dairy Sci 2017; 101:637-648. [PMID: 29102143 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2017-12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although prototypes of automatic lameness detection systems for dairy cattle exist, information about their economic value is lacking. In this paper, a conceptual and operational framework for simulating the farm-specific economic value of automatic lameness detection systems was developed and tested on 4 system types: walkover pressure plates, walkover pressure mats, camera systems, and accelerometers. The conceptual framework maps essential factors that determine economic value (e.g., lameness prevalence, incidence and duration, lameness costs, detection performance, and their relationships). The operational simulation model links treatment costs and avoided losses with detection results and farm-specific information, such as herd size and lameness status. Results show that detection performance, herd size, discount rate, and system lifespan have a large influence on economic value. In addition, lameness prevalence influences the economic value, stressing the importance of an adequate prior estimation of the on-farm prevalence. The simulations provide first estimates for the upper limits for purchase prices of automatic detection systems. The framework allowed for identification of knowledge gaps obstructing more accurate economic value estimation. These include insights in cost reductions due to early detection and treatment, and links between specific lameness causes and their related losses. Because this model provides insight in the trade-offs between automatic detection systems' performance and investment price, it is a valuable tool to guide future research and developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Van De Gucht
- Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Burg. van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Biosystems, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Wouter Saeys
- Department of Biosystems, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jef Van Meensel
- Social Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Burg. van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Annelies Van Nuffel
- Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Burg. van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Jurgen Vangeyte
- Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Burg. van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ludwig Lauwers
- Social Sciences Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Burg. van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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31
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Van De Gucht T, Van Weyenberg S, Van Nuffel A, Lauwers L, Vangeyte J, Saeys W. Supporting the Development and Adoption of Automatic Lameness Detection Systems in Dairy Cattle: Effect of System Cost and Performance on Potential Market Shares. Animals (Basel) 2017; 7:ani7100077. [PMID: 28991188 PMCID: PMC5664036 DOI: 10.3390/ani7100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Most prototypes of systems to automatically detect lameness in dairy cattle are still not available on the market. Estimating their potential adoption rate could support developers in defining development goals towards commercially viable and well-adopted systems. We simulated the potential market shares of such prototypes to assess the effect of altering the system cost and detection performance on the potential adoption rate. We found that system cost and lameness detection performance indeed substantially influence the potential adoption rate. In order for farmers to prefer automatic detection over current visual detection, the usefulness that farmers attach to a system with specific characteristics should be higher than that of visual detection. As such, we concluded that low system costs and high detection performances are required before automatic lameness detection systems become applicable in practice. Abstract Most automatic lameness detection system prototypes have not yet been commercialized, and are hence not yet adopted in practice. Therefore, the objective of this study was to simulate the effect of detection performance (percentage missed lame cows and percentage false alarms) and system cost on the potential market share of three automatic lameness detection systems relative to visual detection: a system attached to the cow, a walkover system, and a camera system. Simulations were done using a utility model derived from survey responses obtained from dairy farmers in Flanders, Belgium. Overall, systems attached to the cow had the largest market potential, but were still not competitive with visual detection. Increasing the detection performance or lowering the system cost led to higher market shares for automatic systems at the expense of visual detection. The willingness to pay for extra performance was €2.57 per % less missed lame cows, €1.65 per % less false alerts, and €12.7 for lame leg indication, respectively. The presented results could be exploited by system designers to determine the effect of adjustments to the technology on a system’s potential adoption rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Van De Gucht
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research-ILVO, Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Burg, van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
- KU Leuven Department of Biosystems, MeBioS, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30 Box 2456, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Stephanie Van Weyenberg
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research-ILVO, Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Burg, van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Annelies Van Nuffel
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research-ILVO, Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Burg, van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Ludwig Lauwers
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research-ILVO, Social Sciences Unit, Burg, van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Bio-Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Jürgen Vangeyte
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research-ILVO, Technology and Food Sciences Unit, Burg, van Gansberghelaan 115, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Wouter Saeys
- KU Leuven Department of Biosystems, MeBioS, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30 Box 2456, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
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Adams A, Lombard J, Fossler C, Román-Muñiz I, Kopral C. Associations between housing and management practices and the prevalence of lameness, hock lesions, and thin cows on US dairy operations. J Dairy Sci 2017; 100:2119-2136. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Mason W. Association between age and time from calving and reported lameness in a dairy herd in the Waikato region of New Zealand. N Z Vet J 2017; 65:163-167. [PMID: 28152335 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2017.1289864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
CASE HISTORY During the 2014/2015 season 823 predominantly Holstein-Friesian cows calved on a pasture-based farm in the Waikato region of New Zealand. A high prevalence and recurrence rate of lameness had been noted for several years but cows feet were not routinely picked up and therapeutically trimmed. CLINICAL FINDINGS At a farm visit in December 2015, 23 cows feet were examined and 18/23 (78%) cows had white line disease and 17/23 (74%) sole haemorrhages, as well as severely overgrown and misshapen hooves. EPIDEMIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION Lameness, culling and reproductive data were collected for the farm for the period from 01 July 2014 to 30 November 2015. In the 2014/2015 season, 207/823 (25.2%) cows were recorded lame, and in the first half of the 2015/16 season 120/850 (14%) cows were recorded lame. Of the cows recorded lame, 52/207 (25.1%) in the 2014/15 season had >1 case of lameness, and 39/120 (32.5%) cows recorded lame in the 2015/2016 season had been lame in the previous season. There was an apparent increase in prevalence between 29-37 weeks post-calving. Cows >7-years-old had seven times the odds of being recorded as lame compared to 2-3-year-old cows (p<0.001). Lameness was not associated with culling, empty rate or days to conception (p>0.3). DIAGNOSIS No direct cause for the lameness could be determined. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE It was hypothesised that, along with the degenerative changes in the pedal bone as dairy cows increased in age, suboptimal treatment and overgrowth of hooves resulted in permanent changes in the cows feet, resulting in a high prevalence of lameness in older cattle and a high recurrence rate of lameness within and between seasons. This case highlights the importance of prompt identification and treatment of lame cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Mason
- a VetEnt Te Awamutu , 49 Benson Road, Te Awamutu
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Wäsle K, Pospischil A, Hässig M, Gerspach C, Hilbe M. The Post-mortem Examination in Ruminants and its Possible Benefit to Ruminant Clinical Medicine. J Comp Pathol 2017; 156:202-216. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Charfeddine N, Pérez-Cabal MA. Effect of claw disorders on milk production, fertility, and longevity, and their economic impact in Spanish Holstein cows. J Dairy Sci 2016; 100:653-665. [PMID: 27865503 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The aims of this study were (1) to estimate the phenotypic association between different degrees of severity of claw disorders and production, fertility performance, and longevity in Spanish dairy cattle, and (2) to quantify its economic impact at the animal and herd level. In this study, claw data comprised 108,468 trimmings collected between 2012 and 2014 by 25 trimmers from 804 Holstein dairy herds. The claw disorders considered were the 3 most frequent disorders in Spanish dairy herds: dermatitis (DE), sole ulcer (SU), and white line disease (WL). The presence of SU or WL was associated with a significant decrease in milk production and was more important in cows in second or later lactations. A severe lesion of SU or WL lead to twice the milk losses associated with a mild lesion, ranging from 1.47 to 2.66kg/d of energy-corrected milk. The presence of SU or WL during the early lactation period was associated with more days open, fewer inseminations to get pregnant, and longer calving to first service interval (4.83 and 8.0 d longer due to mild and severe lesions of SU, respectively, and 4.94 and 17.43 d longer due to mild and severe lesions of WL, respectively). The occurrence of a case of SU or WL in first lactation had a significant effect on longevity, with severe lesions reducing up to 71 d of productive life. The cost of a mild lesion ranged from $53 to $232 per affected cow and year, whereas the cost of a severe lesion ranged from $402 to $622 per affected cow and year. The annual costs per cow for DE, SU, and WL were $10.80, $50.9, and $43.2, respectively. An average herd with 64 cows had an extra expenditure of $691/yr due to DE, $3,256/yr due to SU, and $2,765/year due to WL. Milk losses, longer calving intervals, and premature culling contributed to more than half of the costs. Therefore, providing this information to farmers could help decide on strategies to reduce the incidence of claw disorders on the farm.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Charfeddine
- Spanish Holstein Association (CONAFE), 28340 Valdemoro, Spain
| | - M A Pérez-Cabal
- Department of Animal Production, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
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Ranjbar S, Rabiee A, Gunn A, House J. Identifying risk factors associated with lameness in pasture-based dairy herds. J Dairy Sci 2016; 99:7495-7505. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2016-11142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Accepted: 05/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Wu X, Guldbrandtsen B, Lund MS, Sahana G. Association analysis for feet and legs disorders with whole-genome sequence variants in 3 dairy cattle breeds. J Dairy Sci 2016; 99:7221-7231. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-10705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Modelling the impact of livestock disease on production: case studies of non-notifiable diseases of farm animals in Great Britain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s1357729800050700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
AbstractSpreadsheet models were constructed to assess the economic impact of some 30 non-notifiable diseases of farm animals in Great Britain. A standardized methodology and common valuation base were used to derive estimates of the direct costs to livestock production of each disease, separately identifying the costs associated with disease output losses and those relating to disease treatment and prevention. Disease data limitations and uncertainties are incorporated into the estimation procedure. The spreadsheet models are highly transparent with calculations and the origin of parameter values clearly documented. The assessments of six bovine diseases, are presented: BVD, fasciolosis, lameness, leptospirosis, mastitis, and summer mastitis, and full details of the analyses of all the diseases can he accessed on the internet. The models do not consider the wider economic impacts of disease, such as effects on markets, human health and animal welfare. However, the approach is a simple and transparent one which enables exploration of the direct costs associated with a range of livestock diseases and which is easily communicated to policy makers and others.
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Aleri JW, Hine BC, Pyman MF, Mansell PD, Wales WJ, Mallard B, Fisher AD. Periparturient immunosuppression and strategies to improve dairy cow health during the periparturient period. Res Vet Sci 2016; 108:8-17. [PMID: 27663364 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Common health problems observed during peripartum include milk fever, mastitis, fatty liver disease, ketosis, dystocia, retained placenta, metritis, hypomagnesaemia and abomasal displacements. The increased incidence of health problems observed during the periparturient period can be partly attributed to suboptimal immune responses. Factors contributing to decreased periparturient immunity include the act of parturition itself, impaired leukocytic activity, effects of colostrogenesis and lactogenesis, and associated hypocalcemia and negative energy balance. Nutritional and other management strategies represent a relevant short-term strategy aimed at improving the health and welfare of the transitioning cow. Additionally, it is important to consider improving the health of dairy herds through the genetic selection of animals with enhanced robustness by identifying those with superior disease resistance or resilience in the face of infection. As a consequence these animals are better able to cope with the production and environmental stresses. These may provide long-term selection strategies for improving the health and welfare of the transitioning cow particularly when combined with sound management practices, allowing dairy cattle to reach their full genetic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Aleri
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia; Animal Welfare Science Centre, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - B C Hine
- CSIRO, Agriculture Flagship, Armidale, New South Wales 2350, Australia
| | - M F Pyman
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - P D Mansell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | - W J Wales
- Agriculture Research and Development Division, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, Ellinbank, Victoria 3821, Australia
| | - B Mallard
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Ontario NIG 2W1, Canada
| | - A D Fisher
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia; Animal Welfare Science Centre, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Confalonieri OE, Moscuzza H, Rodríguez EM, Passucci JA. Patologías podales en ganado lechero y feedlot del partido de Tandil, provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina. REVISTA DE LA FACULTAD DE MEDICINA VETERINARIA Y DE ZOOTECNIA 2016. [DOI: 10.15446/rfmvz.v63n1.56899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
<p>Las patologías podales del bovino son multicausales, incluyendo alta producción, estrés, nutrición, causas ambientales, infecciosas, genéticas, razas, estado fisiológico y comportamiento tanto animal como humano. Están adquiriendo gran importancia debido a la intensificación de la producción. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar la prevalencia de enfermedades podales en explotaciones lecheras y en comparar ambos tipos de explotación en la región de Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Se evaluaron 24 tambos en 2005 y un en 2013 en busca de patologías podales. Los animales que presentaron claudicación se separaron del rodeo y se revisaron. Se calculó la prevalencia bruta y por patologías de mayor presentación en ambos tipos de producción y además proporción según miembro afectado. Se estimaron diferencias entre las prevalencias de cada tipo de producción por medio de Chi cuadrado (lt;0,05) y razón de prevalencias. La prevalencia en los 12132 animales lecheros fue del 2,71% y en los 14500 de <em>feedlot</em> del 0,57% (Razón de prevalencia=4,73 (IC95%=3,72–6,02). La prevalencia de traumatismos en <em>feedlot</em> fue del 0,17% y en tambos 0,016% (p<0,05); dermatitis digital (tambo 0,69%, <em>feedlot</em> 0,13%; p<0,05) e interdigital (tambos 0,81%, 0,1%; lt;0,05). En ambas producciones los miembros más afectados fueron los posteriores (90,4% y 88,1% tambos). La baja prevalencia en podría deberse a la baja edad de los animales. En los animales de hay significativamente más prevalencia en traumatismos que en tambos, mientras que en éstos hay más dermatitis digital e interdigital.</p>
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Bak A, Herskin M, Jensen M. Effect of sand and rubber surface on the lying behavior of lame dairy cows in hospital pens. J Dairy Sci 2016; 99:2875-2883. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Foditsch C, Oikonomou G, Machado VS, Bicalho ML, Ganda EK, Lima SF, Rossi R, Ribeiro BL, Kussler A, Bicalho RC. Lameness Prevalence and Risk Factors in Large Dairy Farms in Upstate New York. Model Development for the Prediction of Claw Horn Disruption Lesions. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146718. [PMID: 26795970 PMCID: PMC4721874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 12/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The main objectives of this prospective cohort study were a) to describe lameness prevalence at drying off in large high producing New York State herds based on visual locomotion score (VLS) and identify potential cow and herd level risk factors, and b) to develop a model that will predict the probability of a cow developing claw horn disruption lesions (CHDL) in the subsequent lactation using cow level variables collected at drying off and/or available from farm management software. Data were collected from 23 large commercial dairy farms located in upstate New York. A total of 7,687 dry cows, that were less than 265 days in gestation, were enrolled in the study. Farms were visited between May 2012 and March 2013, and cows were assessed for body condition score (BCS) and VLS. Data on the CHDL events recorded by the farm employees were extracted from the Dairy-Comp 305 database, as well as information regarding the studied cows’ health events, milk production, and reproductive records throughout the previous and subsequent lactation period. Univariable analyses and mixed multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyse the data at the cow level. The overall average prevalence of lameness (VLS > 2) at drying off was 14%. Lactation group, previous CHDL, mature equivalent 305-d milk yield (ME305), season, BCS at drying off and sire PTA for strength were all significantly associated with lameness at the drying off (cow-level). Lameness at drying off was associated with CHDL incidence in the subsequent lactation, as well as lactation group, previous CHDL and ME305. These risk factors for CHDL in the subsequent lactation were included in our predictive model and adjusted predicted probabilities for CHDL were calculated for all studied cows. ROC analysis identified an optimum cut-off point for these probabilities and using this cut-off point we could predict CHDL incidence in the subsequent lactation with an overall specificity of 75% and sensitivity of 59%. Using this approach, we would have detected 33% of the studied population as being at risk, eventually identifying 59% of future CHDL cases. Our predictive model could help dairy producers focusing their efforts on CHDL reduction by implementing aggressive preventive measures for high risk cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Foditsch
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Georgios Oikonomou
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Cheshire, United Kingdom
| | - Vinícius Silva Machado
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Marcela Luccas Bicalho
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Erika Korzune Ganda
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Svetlana Ferreira Lima
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Rodolfo Rossi
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Bruno Leonardo Ribeiro
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Arieli Kussler
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
| | - Rodrigo Carvalho Bicalho
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Muggli E, Weidmann E, Kircher P, Nuss K. Radiographic Measurement of Hindlimb Digit Length in Standing Heifers. Anat Histol Embryol 2015; 45:463-468. [PMID: 26706956 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The digital skeleton of the hindlimbs was evaluated radiographically in 27 standing Brown Swiss heifers. The lateral digital skeleton was significantly longer than its medial counterpart on both a hard (wooden block) and a softer (wooden block covered with a thin rubber mat) surface. There were no significant differences between lengths measured on the hard and the soft surface. The difference between the length of the lateral and medial digits originated at the level of the condyles and increased with P1 and P2. It was partially compensated by a higher third phalanx (P3) in the medial digit, but this did not offset the overall length difference. The findings of this study confirmed that the length asymmetry of the paired digits of cattle documented previously in post-mortem specimens is also present in living cattle. Further investigation is required to determine the clinical relevance of the length asymmetry of the digital skeleton in cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Muggli
- Division of Ruminant Surgery, Department of Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - E Weidmann
- Division of Ruminant Surgery, Department of Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - P Kircher
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Small Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - K Nuss
- Division of Ruminant Surgery, Department of Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057, Zürich, Switzerland
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Tremetsberger L, Leeb C, Winckler C. Animal health and welfare planning improves udder health and cleanliness but not leg health in Austrian dairy herds. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:6801-11. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2014-9084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Lameness Detection in Dairy Cows: Part 2. Use of Sensors to Automatically Register Changes in Locomotion or Behavior. Animals (Basel) 2015; 5:861-85. [PMID: 26479390 PMCID: PMC4598710 DOI: 10.3390/ani5030388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As lame cows produce less milk and tendto have other health problems, finding and treating lame cows is very importantfor farmers. Sensors that measure behaviors associated with lameness in cowscan help by alerting the farmer of those cows in need of treatment. This reviewgives an overview of sensors for automated lameness detection and discussessome practical considerations for investigating and applying such systems inpractice. Abstract Despite the research on opportunities toautomatically measure lameness in cattle, lameness detection systems are notwidely available commercially and are only used on a few dairy farms. However, farmers need to be aware of the lame cows in their herds in order treat themproperly and in a timely fashion. Many papers have focused on the automatedmeasurement of gait or behavioral cow characteristics related to lameness. Inorder for such automated measurements to be used in a detection system, algorithms to distinguish between non-lame and mildly or severely lame cowsneed to be developed and validated. Few studies have reached this latter stageof the development process. Also, comparison between the different approachesis impeded by the wide range of practical settings used to measure the gait or behavioralcharacteristic (e.g., measurements during normal farming routine or duringexperiments; cows guided or walking at their own speed) and by the differentdefinitions of lame cows. In the majority of the publications, mildly lame cowsare included in the non-lame cow group, which limits the possibility of alsodetecting early lameness cases. In this review, studies that used sensortechnology to measure changes in gait or behavior of cows related to lamenessare discussed together with practical considerations when conducting lamenessresearch. In addition, other prerequisites for any lameness detection system onfarms (e.g., need for early detection, real-time measurements) are discussed.
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Predictive models of lameness in dairy cows achieve high sensitivity and specificity with force measurements in three dimensions. J DAIRY RES 2015; 82:391-9. [DOI: 10.1017/s002202991500028x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Lameness remains a significant cause of production losses, a growing welfare concern and may be a greater economic burden than clinical mastitis . A growing need for accurate, continuous automated detection systems continues because US prevalence of lameness is 12·5% while individual herds may experience prevalence's of 27·8–50·8%. To that end the first force-plate system restricted to the vertical dimension identified lame cows with 85% specificity and 52% sensitivity . These results lead to the hypothesis that addition of transverse and longitudinal dimensions could improve sensitivity of lameness detection. To address the hypothesis we upgraded the original force plate system to measure ground reaction forces (GRFs) across three directions. GRFs and locomotion scores were generated from randomly selected cows and logistic regression was used to develop a model that characterised relationships of locomotion scores to the GRFs. This preliminary study showed 76 variables across 3 dimensions produced a model with greater than 90% sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating curve (AUC). The result was a marked improvement on the 52% sensitivity, and 85% specificity previously observed with the 1 dimensional model or the 45% sensitivities reported with visual observations. Validation of model accuracy continues with the goal to finalise accurate automated methods of lameness detection.
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Abstract
Lameness in dairy cows is an important welfare issue. As part of a welfare assessment, herd level lameness prevalence can be estimated from scoring a sample of animals, where higher levels of accuracy are associated with larger sample sizes. As the financial cost is related to the number of cows sampled, smaller samples are preferred. Sequential sampling schemes have been used for informing decision making in clinical trials. Sequential sampling involves taking samples in stages, where sampling can stop early depending on the estimated lameness prevalence. When welfare assessment is used for a pass/fail decision, a similar approach could be applied to reduce the overall sample size. The sampling schemes proposed here apply the principles of sequential sampling within a diagnostic testing framework. This study develops three sequential sampling schemes of increasing complexity to classify 80 fully assessed UK dairy farms, each with known lameness prevalence. Using the Welfare Quality herd-size-based sampling scheme, the first 'basic' scheme involves two sampling events. At the first sampling event half the Welfare Quality sample size is drawn, and then depending on the outcome, sampling either stops or is continued and the same number of animals is sampled again. In the second 'cautious' scheme, an adaptation is made to ensure that correctly classifying a farm as 'bad' is done with greater certainty. The third scheme is the only scheme to go beyond lameness as a binary measure and investigates the potential for increasing accuracy by incorporating the number of severely lame cows into the decision. The three schemes are evaluated with respect to accuracy and average sample size by running 100 000 simulations for each scheme, and a comparison is made with the fixed size Welfare Quality herd-size-based sampling scheme. All three schemes performed almost as well as the fixed size scheme but with much smaller average sample sizes. For the third scheme, an overall association between lameness prevalence and the proportion of lame cows that were severely lame on a farm was found. However, as this association was found to not be consistent across all farms, the sampling scheme did not prove to be as useful as expected. The preferred scheme was therefore the 'cautious' scheme for which a sampling protocol has also been developed.
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Van Nuffel A, Saeys W, Sonck B, Vangeyte J, Mertens K, De Ketelaere B, Van Weyenberg S. Variables of gait inconsistency outperform basic gait variables in detecting mildly lame cows. Livest Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Alsaaod M, Schaefer AL, Büscher W, Steiner A. The Role of Infrared Thermography as a Non-Invasive Tool for the Detection of Lameness in Cattle. SENSORS 2015; 15:14513-25. [PMID: 26094632 PMCID: PMC4507600 DOI: 10.3390/s150614513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The use of infrared thermography for the identification of lameness in cattle has increased in recent years largely because of its non-invasive properties, ease of automation and continued cost reductions. Thermography can be used to identify and determine thermal abnormalities in animals by characterizing an increase or decrease in the surface temperature of their skin. The variation in superficial thermal patterns resulting from changes in blood flow in particular can be used to detect inflammation or injury associated with conditions such as foot lesions. Thermography has been used not only as a diagnostic tool, but also to evaluate routine farm management. Since 2000, 14 peer reviewed papers which discuss the assessment of thermography to identify and manage lameness in cattle have been published. There was a large difference in thermography performance in these reported studies. However, thermography was demonstrated to have utility for the detection of contralateral temperature difference and maximum foot temperature on areas of interest. Also apparent in these publications was that a controlled environment is an important issue that should be considered before image scanning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maher Alsaaod
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern 3001, Switzerland.
| | - Allan L Schaefer
- Agriculture Forestry Centre, Department of AFNS, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2P5, Canada.
| | - Wolfgang Büscher
- Livestock Technology Section, Institute for Agricultural Engineering, University of Bonn, Nussallee 5, Bonn D-53115, Germany.
| | - Adrian Steiner
- Clinic for Ruminants, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern 3001, Switzerland.
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