Frequency of White line disease and Sole ulcers and impact of hoof trimming in examined herds of Simmental cows

Lameness as a consequence of hoof disorders is gaining significance in animal health considerations with a particular impact in tie-hold systems. Preventive hoof trimming becomes an important zootechnic measure and procedure for the health and welfare improvement of cows. The objective of our study was to demonstrate findings of sole ulcers and white line diseases of cattle on smallholder farms. Another aspect was to display our observations on hoof trimming within the perspective of sole ulcers and white line disease in the examined herds. A total of 108 Simmental cows from 14 small noncommercial farms located in the Macva district, Western Serbia, from March to October in 2020 were observed. The trimming procedure was performed by the Dutch method with cows fixed in a mobile chute for hoof trimming. Also, medical treatment of the hoof was provided as needed, using orthopedic foot blocks (wooden and rubberized blocks). Before treatment the white line disease and sole ulcers were present in 12 herds (85.7%). After treatment, there was a decrease in the frequency of sole ulcers positive herds (from 85.7% to 78.5%), while the frequency of white line disease in herds remained unchanged. Regarding cows, a frequency of white line disease of 25.0% was reduced to 18.5%, showing a significant difference (p<0.05) before and after treatment. The frequency of sole ulcers in cows of 23.1% was reduced to 15.7% on re-examination six months after trimming though the difference was not significant, respectively (P<0.05). White line disease and sole ulcers are widespread diseases of hooves on small noncommercial farms in Serbia. This study also provides insights that show the health status of cows' hooves and demonstrated the importance of regular hoof trimming. Our findings suggest that regular hoof trimming (twice a year) and adequate housing conditions are crucial for improving the health of hooves.