by Fiona Lane May 28, 2025
Foot rot in cattle and other livestock - including sheep, deer, and goats - is a painful, contagious bacterial infection affecting the hooves, with early symptoms like lameness and swelling posing a serious threat to herd health and farming productivity. Differentiating foot rot from interdigital dermatitis and addressing key risk factors—such as wet conditions, poor nutrition, and overcrowding—are crucial for effective prevention and management on the farm.
Foot rot – also foul-in-the-foot, interdigital necrobacillosis or infectious pododermatitis – is a common and often painful hoof ailment affecting livestock, particularly cattle and sheep. Outbreaks can impact a farm’s bottom line due to decreased productivity, treatment costs, and, in severe cases, culling. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies is essential for maintaining herd health.
Foot rot is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the soft tissue between the claws of the hoof.
In cattle, foot rot is usually caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum which thrives in wet, muddy conditions. The bacteria enter through minor cuts or abrasions in the skin, leading to inflammation and tissue damage. While contagious among cattle, these bacteria are largely benign in sheep.
In sheep, deer, and goats, the main bacteria that causes foot rot is Dichelobacter nodosus. Animals become infected by walking on contaminated pastures or mud, but the bacteria can be present in drier conditions by surviving on the feet of a carrier animal.
Early detection is vital. If left untreated, the infection can spread quickly through a herd, leading to more severe complications and prolonged recovery times. Symptoms are similar for cattle and other livestock and include:
Not exactly, although they are easily confused. Interdigital dermatitis – also called “scald” or “interdigital pyoderma” is a bacterial infection with milder symptoms, although if left untreated can progress to foot rot.
Hooves exposed to dirt and mud can result in foot rot in cattle.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of foot rot in cattle and sheep:
Effective management of foot rot and interdigital dermatitis involves a combination of environmental control, regular monitoring, and supportive treatments.
· Foot Rot – Prev is professionally formulated to support foot rot prevention in cattle, and can also be used for livestock prone to interdigital dermatitis. Add to the water trough during high-risk periods to provide cover for your herd.
· Foot Rot – Active can also be used on both cattle and sheep once foot rot or interdigital dermatitis symptoms are present.
· Both Foot Rot – Prev and Foot Rot – Active can be used to support prevention and management of foot rot in sheep, deer, and goats too.
· Foot Rot Kit by a 1L jerry can of each remedy and save $40.
Our remedies are:
By integrating our remedies into your herd management practices, you can proactively support hoof health and reduce the incidence of foot-related ailments in your cattle, sheep and other livestock.
Foot rot is a significant concern in livestock management, but with proactive measures, the impact can be minimised. Maintaining clean and dry environments, regular hoof care, and using our natural remedies can help farmers manage the wellbeing of their animals.
General Disclaimer: Always follow dosing instructions. Our remedies are formulated to support the natural immune system of horses, pets, livestock, and people. We do not claim to treat, medicate, or cure any health conditions. If you are worried an animal may be in pain or suffering, please contact your veterinarian.