Single-step genome-wide association analyses of claw horn lesions in Holstein cattle using linear and threshold models.

Background: Lameness in dairy cattle is primarily caused by foot lesions including the claw horn lesions (CHL) of sole haemorrhage (SH), sole ulcers (SU), and white line disease (WL). This study investigated the genetic architecture of the three CHL based on detailed animal phenotypes of CHL susceptibility and severity. Estimation of genetic parameters and breeding values, single-step genome-wide association analyses, and functional enrichment analyses were performed.

A Prospective Cohort Study on the Periparturient Muscle Tissue Mobilisation in High Producing Dairy Cows.

Excessive periparturient fat mobilisation and its association with dairy cattle health and fertility is well documented; however, the role of muscle mobilisation has not been studied extensively. The objectives of this study were to (i) investigate the changes in the thickness of the longissimus dorsi muscle in high producing dairy cows during the periparturient period, (ii) identify factors associated with these changes, and (iii) describe their possible associations with cattle reproductive performance. Data were collected from a total of 500 lactations from 455 cows on three different UK farms.

Evaluation of the use of ketoprofen for the treatment of digital dermatitis in dairy cattle: A randomised, positive controlled, clinical trial.

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the benefits of administering ketoprofen to cows suffering from active digital dermatitis (DD).

Methods: 158 cows presented with active DD (M1, M2 or M4.1 stage) were randomly allocated to either the control or the treatment group.