BONUS SPRING SUMMER 2025

1. Prioritising nutrition for hoof health The importance of a balanced diet: A balanced diet is vital for maintaining hoof health. Fiber found in forages is crucial for maintaining a healthy rumen and supporting strong hooves. It’s also important to avoid sudden changes to the ration. Abrupt changes in a cow’s diet can disrupt the delicate balance of the rumen microbiota, potentially leading to acidosis and increasing the risk of laminitis. To mitigate this risk, dietary changes should be introduced gradually, allowing rumen microbes to adjust. Additives for hoof health: Consider feed additives as part of summer preparation. While rumen microbes naturally synthesise biotin, fluctuating rumen pH during summer can impair its production. Biotin, a B-vitamin, is crucial for hoof health by supporting keratin formation (keratinisation). Zinc is also essential for a healthy immune system and proper metabolism in cows. Keratin formation relies heavily on zinc, which influences hoof strength, claw integrity, and horn formation. Discuss adding biotin and zinc with your nutritionist during summer preparation. 2. Managing environmental challenges Addressing wet conditions: While summer is generally associated with dry weather, periods of heavy rain can pose challenges. Excess moisture softens hooves, increasing their vulnerabilityto damage and infections like foot rot. Maintaining good drainage on farm roads, especially in high-traffic areas, can help prevent moisture buildup and maintain a firm walking surface. Reducing time on concrete: While concrete is durable, standing on it for extended periods, especially under the summer sun, can take a toll on hooves. Try to reduce cows’ standing time on concrete. 3. Implementing a proactive hoof care programme Regular hoof trimming: Routine hoof trimming is essential for promoting hoof health. Scheduling hoof trimming before summer and during a cow’s dry period ensures that hooves are balanced and potential issues are addressed early, preparing the cows for the season ahead. 4. Maintaining stringent biosecurity protocols Minimising disease introduction: Introducing new animals to a herd, increases the risk of introducing infectious hoof diseases. Implementing strict biosecurity protocols, such as footbaths and quarantine procedures for new arrivals, is crucial for reducing the risk of spreading infections. This is particularly important during summer when cows may be moved between pastures or farms. By focusing on nutrition, managing environmental challenges, and maintaining proactive hoof care and biosecurity, dairy farmers can significantly reduce the risk of lameness in their herds. This not only improves the wellbeing of the cows, but also protects a farm’s overall productivity and profitability. Contact your local De Heus technical advisor for expert guidance on identifying potential weak points in your hoof care programme and to help you prepare your herd for the challenges of the upcoming summer season – www.deheus.co.za/meet-our- team/. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com in environmental conditions, and potential disruptions to feeding and housing routines, all of which can exacerbate hoof problems and increase the risk of lameness. Spring/Summer 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 70