Hoof trimming is a routine procedure done to dairy cows, but no data exists to determine appropriate trimming methods. In the literature, functional hoof trimming is commonly described as the method of choice. However, other methods are commonly reported in the field. This has resulted in a continuous debate within the hoof health industry with respect to what is the appropriate trimming method. To address this question, there is a need for more scientific data on the prevalence of different trimming methods, the effect of these methods on key hoof measurements, and ultimately on the welfare of the cow. The objective of this study was to describe the effect of different trimming methods on key hoof measurements taken on cadaver hind feet of dairy cattle.

Subclinical ketosis (SCK) is a metabolic disease of dairy cows that has significant economic effects on dairy farms due to its effect on reproductive performance, milk production, and future risk of disease. Subclinical ketosis has been defined as being present when serum β-hydroxybutyrate (βHB) concentrations are >1.2 mmol/L. Currently there are 2 electronic hand- held meters marketed for cow-side determination of βHB levels. One meter, the Nova Vet Blood Ketone and Glucose Monitoring System, is a new veterinary specific entrant to the market, and no performance data on it exists. The other, Precision Xtra, is a human meter validated for use in cows. The objective of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic test performance of 2 different cow-side handheld meters and a milk βHB test to a reference laboratory testing method.