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Hoof - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 13:15, 19 August 2011
, 13:15, 19 August 2011→Ruminant Hoof
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The hooves of the main digits curve medially towards each other. The lateral digit carries more weight than the medial digit, and is larger. On the abaxial wall, the distal border makes contact with the ground along its entire length, whereas, on the axial wall, only does so toward the toe. The thickness of the wall increases towards the apex and the plantar surface.
The hooves of the main digits curve medially towards each other. The lateral digit carries more weight than the medial digit, and is larger. On the abaxial wall, the distal border makes contact with the ground along its entire length, whereas, on the axial wall, only does so toward the toe. The thickness of the wall increases towards the apex and the plantar surface. The horn of the hoof generally grows at a rate of 5 mm per month, and in cattle allowed to move freely, growth should equal wear. In intensively kept cattle, growth exceeds wear, and foot trimming is required to maintain optimal shape and angle. The optimal angle of the toe from the ground is 50 degrees. Where horn overgrowth occurs, the coffin joint is gradually overextended and the deep flexor tendon tensed. This results in greater weight being placed over the caudal part of the hoof and can cause pain and lameness.
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The horn of the hoof generally grows at a rate of 5 mm per month, and in cattle allowed to move freely, growth should equal wear. In intensively kept cattle, growth exceeds wear, and foot trimming is required to maintain optimal shape and angle. The optimal angle of the toe from the ground is 50 degrees.
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'''Dewclaws''' are present in most ruminants but do not make contact with the ground. They consist of wall and bulb and have no practical importance. For further detail see the [[Bovine Lower Limb - Anatomy & Physiology|bovine lower limb]] page.
'''Dewclaws''' are present in most ruminants but do not make contact with the ground. They consist of wall and bulb and have no practical importance.
For further detail see the [[Bovine Lower Limb - Anatomy & Physiology|bovine lower limb]] page.
===Porcine Hoof===
===Porcine Hoof===