Introduction
The foot plays a vital role in animal locomotion, serving as a critical support system that provides stability and enables a wide range of movements. When an animal experiences foot problems, even though it may still function to some extent, its overall production and performance are likely to be compromised. The severity of the problem will determine the extent of these negative effects [1]. Although some hoof problems are unavoidable, sound hoof management can greatly reduce the incidence of hoof problems in all types of animals. A good hoof care program leads to lower expenses for treatment, as well as fewer losses due to decreased performance and productivity of the animal [2].
Many viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases hinder livestock production and its business [3]. Foot diseases causing lameness in dairy cattle are serious problems and cause significant economic losses, ranking third after mastitis and infertility [4]. Optimal animal production and performance will be reduced depending on the severity of the problem [5].
In Bangladesh, the prevalence rate of lameness was 17.89% [6], 22.72% [7], and 19.01% [8]. Most cases of lameness in cattle are attributed to foot problems, which may stem from management and environmental factors, poor hygiene, and nutritional practices [5,9]. Foot diseases may be infectious, non-infectious, or of traumatic origin [7,10]. Non-infectious lesions, such as laminitis, can lead to issues such as screw claw, sole hemorrhage, ulcers, fissures, and false soles. Traumatic injuries, such as fractures of the distal phalangeal bone and foreign body penetration, also contribute to foot diseases.
On the other hand, infectious diseases involve various lesions affecting the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and the semisoft heel bulb. These infections are typically caused by bacteria entering damaged or macerated tissues, resulting in conditions such as interdigital phlegmon, papillomatous digital dermatitis (commonly known as hairy heel wart), and heel erosions. Both infectious and non-infectious foot lesions can lead to septic processes, such as abscess formation, septic arthritis in the distal interphalangeal joint, septic tenosynovitis, or a combination of these conditions [11].
Proper management and timely treatment are crucial to prevent and address these issues in cattle herds [5]. Failure to provide appropriate treatment for foot diseases can result in no alternative but culling [6].
However, there is no recent data on the prevalence of foot diseases in cattle in Khulna district of Bangladesh. Therefore, a comprehensive survey is necessary to establish baseline information for field veterinarians to mitigate the problem in the cattle industry in Bangladesh. The present investigation aims to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of different foot affections in cattle in Khulna district, Bangladesh.
Materials and Methods
Study area and duration
The study was conducted from April 2022 to March 2023 in ten Upzilla Veterinary Hospital (UVH) in Khulna district of Bangladesh. The upzilla were Terokhada, Rupsa, Fultola, Paikgasha, Koyra, Kotwali, Dumuria, Digholia, Dacope, and Batiaghata (Fig. 1).
Figure 1.
Map of the study area.
Data collection
This study collect retrospectives data of 12 months from April 2022 to March 2023 from the patient register book of 10 UVH of Khulna. Information including the name of the foot diseases, breed, sex, age, and seasonal occurrence was extracted from these registers. A total of 11,354 diseased cattle were recorded from the patient register book at UVH of Khulna district.
Case classification
The 11,354 diseased cattle recorded in the veterinary hospitals of Khulna district were classified based on the data from the hospital registers. Each case was diagnosed by a registered veterinarian using clinical signs and laboratory confirmation. The foot diseases of cattle were further categorized according to breed, sex, age, and season (Table 1) to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the data.
Table 1.
Epidemiological parameters of collected samples.
| Traits | Classification |
|---|---|
| Breed | Indigenous/ local |
| Cross | |
| Sex | Male |
| Female | |
| Age | Calf: day old to 1 year |
| Heifer: 1–2 years | |
| Adult: >2 years | |
| Season | Summer (March to May) |
| Rainy (June to October) | |
| Winter (November to February) |
Statistical analysis
The obtained data were organized in a Microsoft Excel (2013) spreadsheet, and the prevalence of foot diseases was calculated based on breed, sex, age, and season. The prevalence of foot affection was determined using the following equation:
Ethical Approval
No ethical approval is required for this study.
Results
The prevalence of foot diseases in cattle in Khulna district of Bangladesh was 5.9%. Among the foot diseases, the occurrence of foot and mouth disease (FMD) was highest at 35.52%, followed by footrot at 25.97%, laminitis at 13.43%, hoof overgrowth at 7.01%, heel erosion at 6.56%, interdigital dermatitis at 4.18%, sole ulcer at 3.28%, the abscess of sole and white line at 2.23%, and upward patella fixation at 1.79% (Fig. 2). The highest occurrence of foot diseases in cattle was recorded in Paikgacha at 7.47%, followed by Khulna Sadar at 7.33%, Digholia at 6.18%, Batiaghata at 5.89%, Fultola at 5.49%, Dumuria at 5.43%, Dacope at 4.81%, Koyra at 4.75%, Terokhada at 4.67%, and Rupsa at 3.76%.
Figure 2.
Prevalence of foot diseases in cattle in Khulna district of Bangladesh.
The study showed that the highest occurrence of foot diseases in cattle was recorded in female animals, at 51.64%, compared to male animals, at 48.36%. The data indicates that in females, the highest occurrences were hoof overgrowth, at 59.57%, followed by laminitis, at 58.89%, FMD, at 55.05%, sole ulcer, at 54.55%, and abscess of sole and white line, at 53.33%. In males, the highest occurrences were upward patellar fixation, at 66.67%, followed by interdigital dermatitis, at 60.71%, footrot, at 54.59%, and heel erosion, at 54.54%. (Table 2)
Table 2.
Prevalence of foot diseases in cattle according to sex and breed in Khulna district of Bangladesh.
| Name of disease | Prevalence | Sex | Breed | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | Indigenous | Crossbreed | ||
| FMD | 35.52 | 44.95 | 55.05 | 34.87 | 65.13 |
| Footrot | 25.97 | 54.59 | 45.5 | 44.25 | 55.75 |
| Laminitis | 13.43 | 41.11 | 58.89 | 43.33 | 56.67 |
| Sole ulcer | 3.28 | 45.45 | 54.55 | 40.91 | 59.09 |
| Heel erosion | 6.56 | 54.54 | 45.46 | 40.96 | 59.69 |
| Upward patella fixation | 1.79 | 66.67 | 33.33 | 33.33 | 66.67 |
| Inter digital dermatitis | 4.18 | 60.71 | 39.29 | 39.28 | 66.71 |
| Hoof overgrowth | 7.01 | 40.43 | 59.57 | 31.91 | 68.08 |
| Abscess of sole and white line | 2.23 | 46.67 | 53.33 | 40.00 | 60.00 |
| Total | 670 | 48.36 | 51.64 | 39.10 | 60.89 |
The study revealed that the highest occurrence of foot diseases in cattle was recorded in crossbreed animals, at 60.89%, followed by indigenous animals, at 39.10%. The data indicates that in crossbreed cattle, the highest occurrences were hoof overgrowth, at 68.08%, followed by interdigital dermatitis, at 66.71%, upward patellar fixation, at 66.67%, FMD, at 65.13%, abscess of sole and white line, at 60.00%, heel erosion, at 59.69%, sole ulcer, at 59.09%, laminitis, at 56.67%, and footrot, at 55.75%. In indigenous breeds, the occurrences were footrot, at 44.25%, laminitis, at 43.33%, heel erosion, at 40.96%, and sole ulcer, at 40.91% (Table 2, Fig. 3).
Figure 3.
Breed variations of foot-associated diseases.
The study revealed that the highest occurrence of foot diseases in cattle was recorded in adult animals, at 79.25%, followed by heifers, at 17.46%, and calves, at 3.28%. The data indicated that in adult cattle, the highest occurrences were FMD, at 86.13%, followed by laminitis, at 84.44%, footrot, at 81.03%, heel erosion, at 79.54%, sole ulcer, at 72.72%, and interdigital dermatitis, at 67.85%. In heifers, the most common occurrences were abscess of the sole and white line, at 46.67%, hoof overgrowth, at 42.55%, sole ulcer, at 22.72%, heel erosion, at 18.18%, footrot, at 15.51%, and FMD, at 11.76%. In calves, the highest occurrences were abscess of sole and white line, at 13.33%, followed by interdigital dermatitis, at 7.14%, hoof overgrowth, at 6.38%, sole ulcer, at 4.54%, and footrot, at 3.44% (Table 3).
Table 3.
Occurrence of foot diseases in relation to age and season in Khulna district of Bangladesh.
| Name of disease | Age | Season | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calf (Day old to Year) | Heifer (1–2 Years) | Adult (>2 Years) | Summer (March to May) | Rainy (June to October) | Winter (November to February) | |
| FMD | 2.10 | 11.76 | 86.13 | 11.76 | 34.87 | 53.36 |
| Footrot | 3.44 | 15.51 | 81.03 | 20.11 | 45.4 | 34.48 |
| Laminitis | 2.22 | 13.33 | 84.44 | 28.89 | 44.44 | 26.67 |
| Sole ulcer | 4.54 | 22.72 | 72.72 | 22.72 | 50 | 27.27 |
| Heel Erosion | 2.27 | 18.18 | 79.54 | 65.91 | 22.72 | 11.36 |
| Upward patella fixation | 0 | 25 | 75 | 16.67 | 33.33 | 50 |
| Interdigital dermatitis | 7.14 | 25 | 67.85 | 14.28 | 60.71 | 25 |
| Hoof overgrowth | 6.38 | 42.55 | 51.06 | 29.31 | 27.65 | 42.55 |
| Abscess of sole and white line | 13.33 | 40 | 46.67 | 20 | 53.33 | 26.67 |
| Total | 3.28 | 17.31 | 79.40 | 21.79 | 39.55 | 38.65 |
The study revealed that the highest occurrence of foot diseases in cattle was recorded in the rainy season, at 39.55%, followed by the winter season, at 38.65%, and the summer season, at 21.79%. The data indicated that in the rainy season, the highest occurrences were interdigital dermatitis, at 60.71%, followed by abscess of the sole and white line, at 53.33%, sole ulcer, at 50.00%, footrot, at 45.4%, laminitis, at 44.44%, and FMD, at 34.87%. In the winter season, the highest occurrences were FMD, at 53.36%, followed by upward patellar fixation, at 50%, hoof overgrowth, at 42.55%, footrot, at 34.48%, and laminitis, at 26.67%. In the summer season, the highest occurrences were heel erosion, at 65.91%, followed by hoof overgrowth, at 29.78%, laminitis, at 28.89%, sole ulcer, at 22.72%, and footrot, at 20.11%. (Fig. 4 and Table 3).
Figure 4.
Seasonal variations of foot-associated diseases.
Discussion
The most common foot diseases in cattle, including FMD, footrot, laminitis, hoof overgrowth, heel erosion, interdigital dermatitis, sole ulcer, abscess of sole and white line, and upward patella fixation, were recorded at UVH in Khulna district of Bangladesh. During the study, a total of 11,354 diseased cattle were recorded at different UVHs in Khulna district. Among these diseased cattle, a total of 670 cattle were recorded with foot diseases. The overall occurrence of foot diseases was 5.9%. Among the foot diseases, the occurrence of FMD was the highest at 35.52%, followed by footrot at 25.97%, laminitis at 13.43%, hoof overgrowth at 7.01%, heel erosion at 6.56%, interdigital dermatitis at 4.18%, sole ulcer at 3.28%, abscess of the sole and white line at 2.23%, and upward patella fixation at 1.79%.
FMD, with the highest occurrence at 35.52%, aligns with the report of [6], who recorded that FMD has the highest occurrence rate among foot diseases in cattle. In this study, the occurrence of FMD was more frequent in the winter season at 53.36% and in adult animals at 86.13%, closely matching the report of Subramaniam et al. [12]. However, Rahman et al. [13] described FMD as being highest in the wet season (June to September), which differs from the present study, likely due to FMD’s prevalence in both endemic and sporadic epidemic forms, affecting nearly all districts consistently throughout the year according to Alam et al [14]. The occurrence of FMD was also more frequent in female and crossbreed cattle, similar to the findings of Mannan et al. [15], who noted that crossbreed cattle are more susceptible to FMD.
Footrot, an infectious condition affecting the hooves of cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals, is caused by a combination of bacteria, primarily Fusobacterium necrophorum and Dichelobacter nodosus. These bacteria thrive in wet and muddy conditions, especially when hooves are not properly maintained Kumar et al [16]. In this study, footrot occurred in 25.97% of cattle, making it the second most common foot disease. The occurrence of footrot was more frequent in female, adult, and crossbreed cattle, similar to the findings of VanMetre [17]. The highest occurrence of footrot was during the rainy season at 45.40%, aligning with Biggs et al [18], who observed a higher prevalence of footrot in rainy conditions.
Bovine laminitis, a painful and debilitating condition, affects the hooves of cattle and is characterized by inflammation and damage to the laminae, leading to severe lameness [19]. A sudden change to a high-carbohydrate diet can lead to systemic inflammation and laminitis by Gudaj et al [20]. In this study, the occurrence of laminitis was 13.43%, more frequent in females, adults, and crossbreed cattle, and was highest during the rainy season, similar to the findings of Islam et al. [6].
The prevalence of sole ulcer was 3.28%. Poor management may be responsible for the higher incidence of sole ulcers in this study. The occurrence of sole ulcers was more frequent in females and crossbreed cattle, and was highest during the rainy season at 50%, which is consistent with Islam et al [6], who reported a higher prevalence in the rainy season.
Heel erosion was observed in 6.56% of the cattle population. The condition is favored by warm and humid environments, which contribute to its development. In the present study, heel erosion was more prevalent in male cattle (54.54%) and in crossbred cattle (59.69%). The highest frequency of occurrence was recorded during the summer season (65.91%) and in adult animals (79.54%). These findings are consistent with the observations of Chakraborty et al. [21], who reported that warm and humid conditions facilitate the development of heel erosion, thereby increasing the susceptibility of the heel to secondary infections.
Upward fixation of the patella, or “locking stifle,” was observed in 1.79% of cattle, with a higher prevalence in crossbred cattle (66.67%), adult animals (75%), and during the winter season (50%). These findings align with Islam et al. [6], who reported a higher prevalence in crossbred cattle, though not specifically in the rainy season. Interdigital dermatitis, characterized by inflammation, infection, and ulceration of the interdigital space, affected 4.18% of cattle. The condition was most prevalent in males (60.71%), crossbred cattle (60.71%), and adult cattle (67.85%), consistent with the findings of Islam et al. [6]. The highest occurrence was recorded during the rainy season (60.71%), where moisture, a known predisposing factor, softens the horn and reduces its resistance to physical, chemical, and microbial factors, as reported by Nielsen et al. [22].
Hoof overgrowth was present in 7.01% of cattle, which is lower compared to Talukdar et al [8], who reported a prevalence of 22.22%, but higher than [7], who found a rate of 3.32%. The occurrence was more frequent in female cattle at 59.57%, crossbreed cattle at 68.08%, and was highest during the rainy season at 42.55% and in adult cattle at 67.85%.
Abscess of the sole and white line was present in 2.23% of cattle. The occurrence was more frequent in female and crossbreed cattle at 60%. It was highest during the rainy season at 53.33% and in adult animals at 46.67%. Cows in swampy or muddy pastures are consistently exposed to humidity, making their hooves more vulnerable to damage. Shearer et al. [23] described that abscesses often develop after undetected or untreated sole ulcers or white line defects, which aligns with the findings of this study. Sobur et al. [24] reported a prevalence of 5.88% for FMD and 4.41% for surgical correction in cattle in Jhenaidah district, which is located within the Khulna division.
Conclusion
This study provides important insights into the prevalence and seasonal patterns of foot diseases in cattle in Khulna district, Bangladesh, revealing significant impacts on livestock health and productivity. It highlights key conditions such as foot rot, laminitis, and hoof overgrowth, and identifies critical risk factors, including management practices, environmental conditions, and breed susceptibility. The results emphasize the need for effective hoof management and timely veterinary intervention to mitigate economic losses. The seasonal variation in disease prevalence points to the necessity for targeted management strategies that account for local environmental conditions. By establishing baseline epidemiological data, this study lays the groundwork for future research and practical interventions aimed at enhancing cattle welfare and agricultural sustainability in Bangladesh. Continued monitoring and evaluation are recommended to support informed decision-making and proactive management in the local livestock industry.
Acknowledgments
The authors acknowledge the Upzilla Veterinary Hospital (UVH) in Khulna district of Bangladesh. This upzilla was Terokhada, Rupsa, Fultola, Paikgasha, Koyra, Kotwali, Dumuria, Digholia, Dacope, and Batiaghata for providing data.
Data availability
The data generated from this study will be available on a valid request from the corresponding author.
Conflicts of interest
The authors declare no competing interest.
Author contributions
Md. Abdur Rahim: Conceptualization, experimental design, collection of data, conducted experiment, data analysis, writing manuscript. Kazi Abdus Sobur: Data analysis, review, and writing and reviewing the manuscript.
