The hoof is a keratinized epithelium formed on the distal part of the toes of cattle. Performs the function of shock absorption: transferring impact forces during steps and jumps. Different veterinary authors give different explanations of the structure of a cow’s hooves. Some attribute only the horny shoe to it, others - all the structures inside it, the rest - cutaneous derivatives. Cattle hooves are often subject to pathologies and deformations and require regular care.
Anatomical structure of the hoof
This is a derivative of the epidermis, a keratinized growth or cover. Consists of several pairs of hooves, with phalanges of the 3rd and 4th fingers.There is a small gap between them. There are additional hooves on the 2nd and 5th fingers: these are rudimentary processes that do not perform a supporting function. The base is a skin sheath. What other parts does a cow's hoof consist of?
- Coronary strap and pad.
- Back contour.
- Thin plates.
- Bone elements.
- Sole and toe pads.
- A layer of highly sensitive tissue between the hoof and the bone.
The formation of hooves is a slow process: in a month they grow by 4-7 millimeters. These formations perform important functions, including support, protection, and shock absorption.
Musculoskeletal system of the cow
The limbs of cows are distinguished by well-developed muscles. The hind and front legs regularly support the weight of these massive animals. They also allow individuals to constantly move over long distances. The musculoskeletal system of cattle has structural features:
- The forelimbs are attached directly to the skeleton in the sternum area. They are called breastfeeding.
- Rear - pelvic.
- The cattle limbs include all other parts attached to the frame. These are the pelvic bones and the shoulder blades.
The structure of the front leg is scapula, forearm, wrist, fingers. The toes are the part of the leg that makes up the hoof. The hind leg consists of the femur, pelvic bone, foot and lower leg. The largest part in the structure of the limb is the femur. Each cow's leg ends in a hoof.
Using the concept of “legs” for cows
In veterinary anatomy, it is allowed to use the term “arms/legs” to describe the structure of animals. These are limbs that visually and functionally resemble human ones. Most often the definition is used for the order of primates. But does the concept apply to cows?
The use of the word “legs” to describe the limbs of cattle is permitted. This is due to the fact that the cow’s leg serves as a support and is used to move in space.
The use of the word “paws” is incorrect, since they have claws: dense, narrow or hook-shaped points at the ends of the fingers. But cows do not have such formations.
Artiodactyls or not
The main characteristic of the artiodactyl order is the presence of developed 3 and 4 fingers, at the end of which there is a thick horny hoof (shoe or sheath). At the same time, the 2nd and 5th fingers are underdeveloped, and the 1st has a simplified structure. After lengthy disputes, cows were classified as artiodactyls. This distinguishes them from horses and other odd-toed ungulates, which have only one toe with a hoof covering it.
Cows have 4 toes on each foot. Their arrangement is in pairs: 2 in front, 2 in back. The hoof of ruminants is forked - this is the main reason that allows individuals to be called artiodactyls. Limbs with a similar structure make the animal capable of moving in various terrains: from green meadows to swampy areas.
Possible diseases and prevention
Pathological processes on the hooves develop due to improper housing of cows. Provoking factors are uneven floors in the barn, excessively deep bedding, lack of manure removal, and high humidity. In summer, the risk of disease is increased by long cattle drives along rough roads or grazing on marshy ground.The consequences of the disease are hoof deformation, gait disturbance, and falling on one’s feet.
| Disease | Description |
| Phlegmon | Acute purulent inflammatory process. A common complication of puncture injuries, a consequence of long-term arthritis. Symptoms: acute pain, fever, peeling of the hoof covering. |
| Coriosis (laminitis) | Inflammation in the parietal layer. The cow feels constant discomfort. Accompanied by lameness, the appearance of cracks around the walls, and ulceration of the horn of the sole. |
| Hypertrophy | Uneven weight distribution. Threat of deformation to the limb and spine. |
| Interdigital dermatitis | Bacterial infection. Characterized by lameness, ulcerations, and a significant decrease in productivity. |
Preventing hoof problems involves several measures. Animals are shown only moderate loads. When housing in stalls, a walking area is required. Daily cleaning of manure, slurry, litter. It is important to monitor the humidity level: sudden fluctuations, excessive dampness or dryness are unacceptable.
The cow's hoof is a keratinized hard layer of epithelium. Consists of hooves, phalanges, fingers. Based on the structure of their hooves, cows are classified as artiodactyls. These formations perform the functions of protection and shock absorption. They support the massive weight of the animal and make walking possible. They need care, pruning and inspection.
