The Role of Trace Minerals in Bovine Claw Horn Quality and Lameness

The nutrition program of the dairy can have a significant impact on the incidence oflaminitis. Providing cows with adequate amounts of fiber, the proper amounts ofrumen fermentable carbohydrates and the proper quantity and quality of protein canminimize incidence of lameness. Meeting the micronutrient requirements of thedairy cow requires not only knowledge of the animal s requirements, but also factorsaffecting the availability of micronutrients. Feeding vitamins including biotin andcomplexed trace minerals that are research proven are means to minimize the risk ofanimals developing subclinical micronutrient deficiencies that compromise clawintegrity.