Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Horn hardness, water content and mineral composition were measured in the feet of 42 Friesian cows, 27 with no history and 15 with a history of lameness. Water content and magnesium concentration increased with age, potassium concentration was lower in the hooves of pregnant animals, but none of the variates was affected by lactation. Horn hardness was related to composition, the harder keratin of the claw wall containing more calcium, copper, zinc and phosphorus and lower concentrations of water, sodium, potassium and iron than the heel. Zinc concentration was lower in the horn of lame animals but those of magnesium and copper were increased. Mineral composition varied significantly with respect to the position of the horn in the claw (heel, sole or wall). The results are discussed with regard to the function of the horn constituents. © 1988.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/0007-1935(88)90023-1

Type

Journal article

Journal

British Veterinary Journal

Publication Date

01/01/1988

Volume

144

Pages

534 - 542