Focus On Hoof Care (Part 2): Genetics And Conformation

In part 1 of this series, I explained why we often see cattle with long claws and I touched on the principles that must be kept in mind whenever the subject of feet comes up.

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For the most part, long and overgrown claws in cattle reflect on the owner or the environment in which cattle are kept and not the animal itself. In part 2 of this series, I want to discuss instances where the genetics and conformation of the animal have a negative impact on claws. Weight distribution over claws (left). There is a connection between the posture of the hind legs in the rear view and the condition of the claws (right).

Common claw problems

The confirmation of the legs plays a major role in the appearance of the claws. If we keep the principle of the growth-to-wear ratio in mind, it makes perfect sense. Cattle with good conformation will have claws that wear down evenly, symmetrically, and at a good hoof angle. The same applies to cattle with bad conformation.

Sickle-hocked cattle will develop a short heel, a long toe, and a shallow hoof angle because the heel wears down more than the toe. This is often accompanied by a long and sloping pastern.