Automated Methods to Detect Lameness, the Effects of Analgesic Drug Treatment, and the Effects of Hoof Trimming in Dairy Cows

Abstract

Lameness in dairy cows is a commonly occurring condition that causes decreased productivity and diminished well-being. Lameness has been shown to affect gait, weight distribution, and amount of time spent lying down in dairy cows. Automated methods of measuring weight distribution and standing, walking, and lying behaviors were used, in conjunction with evaluation of gait, to measure the effects of hoof trimming and systemic treatment with the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ketoprofen and flunixin meglumine in dairy cows.