Lameness is one of the main reasons for culling of sows and infections secondary to claw injuries may cause lameness. Claw infections easily spread upwards to the coronary band where severe abscess formations may occur. The relationship of secondary effects of claw lesions to housing has been studied by Gjein, who observed that age influenced the level of lesions on the hind legs. Regular claw trimming may affect the health of the claw and sow productivity. However, little is known about the effect of treatment. The aim of this study was to chart the occurrence of claw lesions, and study the effect of regular trimming.
展开▼
