Importance of Foot and Leg Structure for Beef Cattle in Forage-Based Production Systems

Abstract

Understanding the relationship of foot angle and claw set to beef cattle structural soundness will be critical to the selection of animals that fit forage-based production systems. In an effort to address concerns about foot and leg structure, the American Angus Association’s foot angle and foot claw set expected progeny differences (EPD) were developed in 2019. As a result, these relatively new EPD and associated guidelines have limited phenotypic data submitted thus far. While ample research has evaluated lameness and foot issues in the dairy breeds, less is known about the factors that affect foot structure in beef cattle. This review focuses on beef cattle foot and leg structure, selection factors that may have led to increased problems with feet and legs, and the importance of foot and leg structure in forage-based grazing production systems. Specifically, the importance of locomotion and freedom of movement in extensive rangeland environments is discussed relative to the current literature. In addition, environmental factors that may influence foot and leg structure are addressed as well as heritability of various aspects of foot and leg traits. Where possible, information gaps and research needs are identified to enhance further investigation and the improvement of foot and leg selection tools.

Characterizing Foot and Leg Scores for Montana’s Registered Angus Cattle

“…From November 2021 to April 2022 (5 months), we used the AAA Foot Scoring Guidelines to subjectively score claw set and foot angle on 12 Montana registered Angus herds of various sizes [ 1 , 26 ]. Over this time, 1475 yearling bulls, 992 yearling heifers, 1044 2- and 3-year-old cows, and 1212 cows aged 4 years and older were scored by two individuals.…”

“…Proper foot conformation is important for productivity, health, and welfare in beef cattle production systems [ 1 , 2 ]. Correct bovine foot structure consists of a claw set with symmetrical toes of appropriate length, and a foot angle of approximately 45 degrees that leaves an appropriate depth of heel [ 3 ].…”

“…Correct bovine foot structure consists of a claw set with symmetrical toes of appropriate length, and a foot angle of approximately 45 degrees that leaves an appropriate depth of heel [ 3 ]. Optimal locomotion occurs with proper conformation, as many anatomical parts must articulate together for movement [ 1 , 2 ]. Nutrition and breeding are crucially affected by structural soundness and free locomotion, as both are important for animals to cover acres of pasture [ 4 ].…”

“…In respect to the cattle feeding industry, selection and management pressure has resulted in substantial increases in carcass weight [ 13 ]. As a result, as feeder cattle growth and performance increase, proper foot and leg structure will continue to be an important consideration for selection [ 1 ].…”

“…Many factors likely affect foot conformation such as current production expectations, size and stature, age [ 14 , 15 , 16 ], nutrition [ 17 , 18 ], infection or trauma [ 19 ], trauma [ 20 ], genetics [ 21 , 22 ], environment [ 23 ], and management [ 23 , 24 , 25 ]. While numerous environmental factors have been suggested to affect foot conformation and health, limited information is available [ 1 , 23 ]. Additionally, while research has evaluated lameness and foot issues in the dairy breeds, limited work has been conducted specific to beef cattle [ 3 , 6 , 8 ].…”