Changes in Claw and Leg Health and Hair Cortisol Concentration in Dairy Cows During the Transition from Tie-Stall to Free-Stall Housing: A Study of a Medium-Sized Farm
October 2020
TLDR Cows moving from tie-stall to free-stall housing had more heel problems, less joint lesions, and higher stress levels.
The study assessed claw and leg health, as well as hair cortisol concentration, in 57 dairy cows transitioning from tie-stall to free-stall housing over 14 months. Digital dermatitis prevalence remained stable (49% to 46%), while heel horn erosions increased from 14% to 100%. Carpal and hock lesions decreased significantly in the free-stall barn. Hair cortisol concentration was higher during and after the transition, suggesting increased stress. The findings emphasized the importance of cow comfort in reducing joint lesions but also indicated that free-stall conditions might compromise claw health, necessitating close monitoring.
