What is Hoof Trimming?
Hoof trimming is the routine care and maintenance of a cow’s feet and it’s a crucial part of herd health management on a grass-based, spring-calving dairy farm. Healthy hooves are essential for cows to walk, graze and access feed and water comfortably — all of which directly impact milk production, fertility and welfare.
The Hoof Trimming Process
- Prevents and treats lameness, a common issue that affects productivity and cow comfort.
- Maintains proper hoof shape and balance, ensuring even weight distribution and reducing joint stress.
- Helps detect and manage hoof problems early, such as: sole ulcers, white line disease, digital dermatitis and overgrown hooves
On a spring-calving farm, hoof trimming is usually done:
- Pre-calving (late autumn or early winter): To ensure cows enter the calving season in good condition.
- Mid-lactation (summer): To address wear-and-tear from grazing and prevent problems as cows move more.
- As needed: If lameness or hoof issues are detected during routine inspections.
- Cow is secured in a hoof-trimming crush or chute to ensure safety and stability.
- The trimmer cleans the hoof and trims back overgrown horn, reshaping the hoof to a healthy form.
- Any problem areas (e.g. bruises, lesions, infections) are treated.
- Infected or sore feet may be bandaged or a block applied to relieve pressure on the affected claw.
- Follow-up with the vet if required.
- Cows walk long distances to paddocks, so sound feet are critical.
- Wet or muddy grazing conditions can increase hoof problems, especially in spring and autumn.
Good hoof health supports:
- Consistent grazing (vital for milk from grass)
- Better heat detection and breeding (lame cows are less active and harder to spot in heat)
- Higher milk yields and fertility
In Summary
Hoof trimming is an essential preventative and therapeutic practice on grass-based, spring-calving dairy farms. It keeps cows mobile, comfortable and productive — helping them make the most of the grazing season while reducing the risk of lameness-related losses.