Reviewing the diagnosis and treatment of digital dermatitis in dairy herds

Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) incidence in the UK was recently estimated at 53.6 cases per 100 cow-years. Few farms engage in active diagnosis of BDD and therefore the importance of this disease is likely underestimated. Although the evidence base for decisions regarding individual treatments and herd foot disinfection remains weak, this article highlights some practical points that can be applied to improve the approach to BDD control. Active diagnosis of acute lesions is needed to improve cure rates and prevent progression to the chronic stage. Footbath chemical concentration and adequacy of renewal of the footbath should be reviewed as these are prone to drifting away from best practice.