What is it?
Digital dermatitis (DD), also known as “strawberry disease” or “Mortellaro” is a common infectious hoof disease affecting cattle caused by Treponema bacteries. It can lead to lameness and decreased productivity if not addressed promptly. Solving is as good as impossible, but it can be controlled. Therefore, here are some steps you can take to manage and control DD in your cow herd.
How to manage digital dermatitis?
Here are some practical steps you can take in your farm. Keep in mind that it is a long-term work and perhaps even a change in cow herd management habits that will make a true difference!
Manage the herd
Isolate affected cows: Identify and separate cows with digital dermatitis from the rest of the herd. This prevents the disease from spreading to healthy animals and allows you to focus on treating the affected individuals.
Herd monitoring: Regularly inspect your herd for signs of digital dermatitis. Early detection is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease and reducing its impact on the herd.
Culling: In severe cases or with recurring infections, consider culling chronically affected cows. In this situation, removing these individuals from the herd can help break the cycle of infection.
Quarantine new animals: When introducing new animals to the herd, quarantine them for a period to ensure they are not carriers of digital dermatitis or other diseases.
Take care of the cows and their conditions
Nutrition and herd management: Ensure your cows have a balanced diet and proper nutrition to support hoof health. Proper herd management practices, such as minimizing stress and optimizing cow comfort, can also contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of infections.
Consult an expert: Work closely with a professional hoof trimmer and/or veterinarian who has experience in cattle health and digital dermatitis. They can provide specific guidance tailored to your herd’s needs and may recommend other treatment options, if necessary.
Maintain clean and dry conditions: DD thrives in moist and dirty environments. Keep the barns, walkways, and feeding areas clean and well-drained to reduce the chances of infection.
Take care of the cows’ hooves
Regular hoof trimming: Regular (preventive and curative) hoof trimming helps prevent and manage digital dermatitis. Work with a professional hoof trimmer to ensure that hooves are properly trimmed, consequently reducing the risk of bacterial growth and infection. For dairy herds with a production below 6000 kg/lactation, two times per year should be enough. If the production is higher, we at CowCare advise you to get your cows checked at least three times per year by a professional hoof trimmer.
Footbaths: Implement footbaths at the entry and exit points of milking parlors and other high-traffic areas. Footbaths can contain solutions like BATH&CARE, which have antibacterial properties effective against digital dermatitis. Make sure to change the solution regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
Topical treatments: There are various topical treatments available for digital dermatitis. The most popular one for professional hoof trimmers is DD-Delete gel combined with a wrap or bandage. Consult with a professional hoof trimmer or veterinarian to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation after the herd has been trimmed.
Key takeaway on digital dermatitis
To conclude, digital dermatitis can be challenging to control, and a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, early detection, and effective treatment is essential for managing the disease in your cow herd. If you want to know what CowCare can offer to help you control digital dermatitis, feel free to contact us.