The structure of a cow's hoof: what parts it consists of and how many fingers, anatomy

Hoof - keratinized epithelium formed on the distal portion of the fingers of cattle. It performs the function of depreciation: the transfer of impact force during steps, jumps. Different authors-veterinarians give a different explanation of the structure of the cow's hooves. Some refer to it only the horny shoe, others - all the structures inside it, the rest - skin derivatives. The hooves of cattle are often subject to pathologies and deformations, and require regular care.

Anatomical structure of the hoof

This is a derivative of the epidermis, a keratinized outgrowth or sheath. It consists of several pairs of hooves, with phalanges of 3rd and 4th fingers.There is a small gap between them. There are additional hooves on the 2nd and 5th fingers: these are rudimentary processes that do not perform a supporting function. The base is a leather case. What other parts does a cow's hoof consist of:

1. Coronal strap and cushion.
2. Back contour.
3. Thin plates.
4. Bone elements.
5. Sole and toe pads.
6. A layer of extra sensitive tissue between the hoof and bone.

The formation of hooves is a slow process: in a month they grow by 4-7 millimeters. These formations perform important functions, including support, protection, depreciation.

For high-quality and reliable work, it is important to cut and peel off the stratum corneum every 6 months. The interval may vary depending on the individual breed.

Cow musculoskeletal system

The limbs of cows are distinguished by well-developed muscles.Hind and front legs regularly bear the weight of these massive animals. They also allow individuals to constantly move over long distances. The musculoskeletal system of cattle has structural features:

1. The forelimbs are attached directly to the skeleton in the region of the sternum. They are called breasts.
2. Posterior - pelvic.
3. Rig limbs include all other parts attached to the frame. These are the pelvic bones and the shoulder blades.

The structure of the front leg - shoulder blade, forearm, wrist, fingers. The toes are the part of the leg from which the hoof is formed. The hind leg consists of the femur, pelvic bone, foot and lower leg. The largest part in the structure of the limb is the femur. Each leg of a cow ends in a hoof.

Using the concept of "legs" for cows

In veterinary anatomy, the term "hands/legs" is allowed to describe the structure of animals. These are limbs that visually and functionally resemble human ones. Most often, the definition is used for the order of primates. But does the concept apply to cows?

The use of the word "legs" to describe the limbs of cattle is permitted. This is due to the fact that the cow's leg performs the function of a support, used to move in space.

The use of the word "paws" is incorrect, since they have claws: dense narrow or hook-shaped points at the ends of the fingers. But cows do not have such formations.

Artiodactyl or not

The main characteristic of the artiodactyl order is the presence of developed 3rd and 4th fingers, at the end of which there is a thick horny hoof (shoe or case). At the same time, fingers 2 and 5 are underdeveloped, and 1 has a simplified structure. After lengthy disputes, the cows were classified as artiodactyls. This distinguishes them from horses and other equids, which have only one toe with a hoof covering it.

Cows have 4 toes on each foot. Their arrangement is in pairs: 2 in front, 2 in the back.The hoof of ruminants is forked - this is the main reason that allows individuals to be called artiodactyls. Limbs with a similar structure make the animal capable of movement in various terrain: from green meadows to swampy areas.

Possible diseases and prevention

Pathological processes on the hooves develop due to improper keeping of cows. Provoking factors are uneven floors in the barn, excessively deep bedding, lack of manure cleaning, high humidity. In summer, the risk of disease is increased by long hauls of cattle on bumpy roads or grazing on marshy ground. Consequences of diseases - deformation of the hooves, gait disturbance, falling on the legs.

PhlegmonAcute purulent inflammatory process.A frequent complication of stab injuries, a consequence of long-term arthritis. Symptoms - acute pain syndrome, fever, detachment of the hoof cover. . The cow feels constant discomfort. Accompanied by lameness, cracks around the walls, ulceration of the sole horn.HypertrophyUneven weight distribution. The threat of deformities for the limb and spine.Interdigital dermatitisBacterial infection. Characterized by lameness, ulceration, a significant decrease in productivity.

Disease	Description

Prevention of hoof problems involves several activities. Animals are shown only moderate exercise. With a stall content, a walking area is required. Daily cleaning of manure, slurry, bedding. It is important to monitor the level of humidity: sharp fluctuations, excessive dampness or dryness are unacceptable.

Cow's hoof is a keratinized hard layer of the epithelium.Consists of hooves, phalanges, fingers. According to the structure of the hooves, cows are classified as artiodactyls. These formations perform the functions of protection and shock absorption. Withstand the massive weight of the animal, make walking possible. In need of care, pruning, inspection.

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