Understanding Lameness Scoring in Cows

Mar 8, 2025

Lameness Scoring in Cows

Overview

  • Importance of regular lameness scoring throughout the year.
  • Conduct scoring on flat, even surfaces:
    • During milking or in a herringbone dairy.
    • As cows enter bales in a rotary dairy.
    • After milking when walking back to paddock (under less pressure).

Lameness Scoring System

Score 0: Normal

  • Cow walks at the same speed as the herd.
  • Normal walking rhythm with even stride lengths.
  • Even foot placement and weight bearing on all four feet.
  • Flat back and steady head.
  • No action required; regular monitoring is necessary.

Score 1: Early Signs of Lameness

  • Hard to identify change in walking speed; keeps up with herd.
  • Shortened strides; rear foot may miss front foot placement.
  • Steps may be uneven but close.
  • Possible arched back and lowered head if rear foot is lame.
  • Feet examination and further observation recommended.

Score 2: Moderate Lameness

  • Cow lame on back right leg.
  • Slower walking pace; may stop on track.
  • Irregular walking rhythm and definite shortened stride.
  • Uneven weight bearing identifiable on lame leg.
  • Healthy leg moves quickly, dewclaws sink closer to the ground.
  • Arched back and bobbing head.
  • Should be drafted, examined, and treated as soon as practical.

Score 3: Severe Lameness

  • Cow lame on back right and front right legs.
  • Very slow walking speed; often lies down in paddock.
  • Obvious uneven and shortened strides; reluctant to bear weight.
  • Arched back, bobbing head, and head held down.
  • Must be drafted, examined, and treated immediately (within 24 hours).
  • May require veterinary attention; should not walk far from the dairy.

Interactive Assessment

  • Review images of cows and score from 0 to 3 based on observations:
    • Most would score a cow with early signs (Score 1).
    • A moderate lameness cow (Score 2) should be drafted and treated promptly.
    • A severely lame cow (Score 3) requires immediate action.

Responsibilities and Best Practices

  • Farmers have a responsibility for the health and welfare of cows.
  • Early detection of lameness leads to faster recovery and reduced costs.
  • Use the Dairy Australia Healthy Hooves Lameness Scoring System to identify cows needing treatment.
  • Record scores and draft lame cows as soon as found.

Additional Resources

  • For more information on the Healthy Hooves project, visit the Dairy Australia website.