Abstract
Aim and Background: Foot diseases pose a significant challenge to cattle health and productivity globally, including in Bangladesh where they impose substantial economic burdens. This study aimed to comprehensively assess the prevalence and seasonal patterns of foot diseases among cattle in Khulna district.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on data collected from April 2022 to March 2023 from ten Upazila Veterinary Hospitals in the Khulna district. A total of 11,354 cases of foot diseases in cattle were examined to determine their prevalence and distribution. Statistical analyses were performed to explore associations between disease occurrence, cattle breeds, ages, genders, and seasonal variations. The diseases assessed included Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), foot rot, laminitis, hoof overgrowth, heel erosion, interdigital dermatitis, sole ulcer, abscess of the sole and white line, and upward patella fixation.
Results: The overall prevalence of foot diseases in cattle was 5.9% across the Khulna district. FMD was the most prevalent, accounting for 35.52% of cases, followed by foot rot (25.97%) and laminitis (13.43%). Crossbred cattle showed a higher susceptibility (60.89%) compared to indigenous breeds (39.10%). Seasonal analysis indicated increased disease occurrence during the rainy and summer seasons, particularly for foot rot, laminitis, sole ulcer, interdigital dermatitis, and abscesses in the sole and white lines.
Conclusions: The study highlights the complex interplay of environmental factors contributing to foot diseases in cattle in the Khulna district. Continued surveillance and further research are recommended to enhance the understanding and management of foot diseases, ultimately improving cattle health and productivity in the region.