Is Level of Trace Minerals Important for Healthy Hoof in Dairy Cows

The aim of this study was to investigate the some trace mineral values on hoof in cows with hoof disease and comparison with healthy ones. Twenty-three Holstein dairy cows (hoof disease group (HD, 18 cases); control group (C, 5 cases) were studied. Determinations of Pb, Fe, Ni, Zn, Cd, Cu and  Mn in the samples were carried out by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. Lead, Fe, Ni, Cd, Cu and Mn values were higher in group HD than group C, but just Pb, Ni, Cd, and Cu values were statistically significant. Zn value was lower significantly in group HD than group C. Sole ulcer (7 cases, 39%) was the most prominent hoof disease in group HD. In conclusion, we found that cattle which has various hoof diseases have lower level of Zn and higher levels of Pb, Ni, Cd, and Cu than the control group. Keeping in mind of trace mineral values would be useful for protection and treatment to hoof diseases in dairy cows.