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.

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.

Post-legged cattle tend to have a claw with a short toe, a long heel, and a steep hoof angle because the toes wear down faster than the heels.