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Digital dermatitis present on sheep and cattle hoof blades
Horse having hoof trimmed
Digital dermatitis was found on 100 per cent of sheep blades.
Research uncovers a possible method of bacteria transfer between cows

New research has revealed a possible method for the transfer of digital dermatitis (DD) between cows and farms.

Scientists at the University of Liverpool have discovered that DD was present on hoof knives used on cattle and sheep following trimming.

The project investigated if DD Treponeme, the bacteria type now widely accepted as responsible for the skin infection, can be present on equipment used to trim hooves. Digital dermatitis is an ulcerative lesion that causes lameness in cattle. It is known that this bacteria causes skin infection by entering into the hair follicle but less is known about how the bacteria survives and is transmitted in the environment.

The research team, led by Dr Nicholas Evans and Professor Stuart Carter of the University of Liverpool in collaboration with veterinarian Roger Blowey, tested trimming equipment used on cattle and sheep with digital dermatitis before and after it was disinfected. After trimming, DD was present on 97 per cent of cattle blades and 100 per cent of sheep blades. This was reduced to 29 per cent and 46 per cent respectively after disinfection.

Dr Evans said; "It has long been considered that digital dermatitis was spread in slurry, which we have some evidence for and are continuing to investigate, but now, for the first time, we have discovered the digital dermatitis bugs in the farm environment. However, the high detection rate of digital dermatitis bacteria on trimming blades soon after trimming cattle and sheep hooves from DD cases suggests this may be a significant and worrying route for the transmission of this infectious condition."

Dr Jenny Gibbons, DairyCo research and development manager, added: “This DairyCo and EBLEX-funded study could help farmers, vets and hoof trimmers to understand more about the transmission of digital dermatitis between cows and farms. A logical precaution to limit the spread is to disinfect hoof trimming equipment between animals and between farms.”

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.