Student Case Presentation
Identifying Digital Dermatitis in Feedlot Cattle in Western Canada
| Date/Time: |
9/12/2024 12
|
| Presenter: |
Bailey DeGroat |
| Veterinary School: |
OH |
Abstract:
Digital dermatitis (DD), also known as “hairy heel wart,” is an infectious disease that has been described since the early 1980s in dairy cattle and is an emerging concern in feedlot cattle. The etiology of DD is uncertain; however, Treponema spp. are implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease. The proliferative nature of DD on the epidermis causes significant animal welfare concerns, including pain, reduced mobility, and reduced feed intake. On June 5th, 2023, a feedlot manager reported that “a group of cattle are not responding to the foot rot treatment protocol.” A lameness presentation was delivered to crew workers to aid in identifying various lameness types. On June 8th, the manager reported an outbreak of DD. Upon evaluation, clinical signs included a flexed hock of the hind leg, a non-swollen painful foot, and a hallmark toe-tip presentation. On average, round, 2-6 cm erosive gross lesions ulcers were characterized with a granular surface revealing a strawberry-like appearance with hyperemia and serous exudate between the heel bulbs. Digital dermatitis was confirmed. Treatment included topical oxytetracycline and quarantine until the contract ship date on June 22nd to eliminate the spread of DD in treatment barns. Despite the growing awareness of DD in feedlots across North America, few practical options exist for prevention and treatment. The challenges for pen riders to identify DD lesions early include minimal visibility, particularly in poor pen conditions, the potential for misdiagnosis, and the occurrence of chronic DD lesions that may show no signs of swelling or pain. The initial foot rot (FR) treatment rate for this feedyard was 3.48%. Adequately training personnel to facilitate the recognition and differentiation of DD from foot rot and other lamenesses early will aid in implementing manageable protocols, reinforcing antimicrobial stewardship, and, ultimately, a higher standard of animal welfare and productivity.
