Let’s be honest, hoof care isn’t exactly the most exciting topic at the breakfast table, but if you’re in the cattle business, it’s one you can’t afford to ignore. Over the years, I’ve heard some right old myths about hoof care – some funny, some downright dangerous – and it’s about time we set the record straight. So, let’s dive in and bust some of these hoof care myths once and for all.
Myth 1: Cows in the Wild Don’t Need Hoof Trimming, So Why Should Mine?
Ah yes, the good old “nature takes care of it” argument. Now, I’d love to see someone compare a wild Highland cow wandering the moors to a high-yield dairy cow stood in a yard all day. The reality is, domesticated cattle are bred differently, fed differently, and live differently than their wild cousins. They don’t walk miles a day across rocky terrain to naturally wear their hooves down. That’s where we come in, keeping them in top condition to prevent lameness and keep them comfortable.
Myth 2: A Lame Cow Just Needs a Few Days to Shake It Off
I’ve heard this one too many times, and let me tell you, it’s a load of rubbish. If your cow is lame, there’s a reason. And ignoring it won’t make it go away, it’ll just make it worse. The sooner you spot a problem and deal with it, the better. A quick check and trim could save you a whole load of hassle – and money – down the line.
Myth 3: Hoof Trimming Hurts the Cow
This is one that really grinds my gears. Done properly, hoof trimming is completely painless – in fact, it’s a relief for the cow. Think about how you feel when you finally cut that annoying long toenail that’s been pressing against your shoe. That’s what a good trim does for them! If your hoof trimmer knows what they’re doing (and if you call Kirby Cattle Services, they will!), then your cow will be a lot happier for it.
Myth 4: Only Dairy Cows Need Hoof Care
Now, dairy farmers are often the first to book in a hoof trim, but that doesn’t mean beef cattle should be ignored. Lameness in beef cattle is a problem too, and the last thing you want is a cow struggling on dodgy feet when you’re trying to fatten it up for market. Healthy hooves mean healthy cattle, no matter what their job is.
Myth 5: Hoof Trimming is Just an Extra Cost I Can Do Without
I get it – margins are tight, and every penny counts. But skimping on hoof care can cost you a lot more in the long run. A lame cow eats less, moves less, and in serious cases, might not recover at all. The cost of one bad case of lameness could easily outweigh the price of regular maintenance. A little investment now can save a fortune later.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
Cattle hoof care isn’t just for show – it’s an essential part of keeping your herd in top condition. Whether you’ve got dairy cows, beef cattle, or a mix of both, looking after their feet should be high on your priority list. And if you need a hand (or a hoof), you know where to find us. Kirby Cattle Services is here to keep your cattle on their feet and in their best shape. Give us a ring – your cows will thank you for it (in their own way, of course!).
Contact me (Joe) today:
Phone: 07713 592795
Email: [email protected]