Claw Lesions, Diseases, and Manifestations

Interdigital Dermatitis

Description: Interdigital dermatitis is a low-grade infection of the interdigital epidermis that causes a slow erosion of the skin with discomfort but no lameness unless the lesion becomes complicated. It is seen worldwide but is most prevalent under poor hygienic conditions in intensive dairy production. Morbidity is usually high in housed animals, particularly toward the end of the winter. When animals in such herds are examined, it is not unusual for 100% to have lesions of varying degrees of severity. The prevalence of heel horn erosion may increase in herds that have a high prevalence of interdigital dermatitis, suggesting a close relationship between the 2 diseases.

Photos: ( as viewed in Zinpro Corp.'s Illustrated Handbook on Cattle Lameness)