Role of Nutrition and Nutrients in the Development of Claw Horn Lesions in Dairy Cows

Background and Study Type: Lameness is one of the most prevalent health problems in dairy cows, with the majority of cases originating from claw horn lesions. This article is a narrative review focusing on the role of nutrition in bovine claw horn health.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of nutritional and metabolic factors on claw horn integrity and the prevention of lameness in dairy cattle.
Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer‑reviewed national and international scientific databases focusing on nutrition and claw horn health in dairy cows.
Results: The findings indicate that imbalances between rapidly fermentable carbohydrates and physically effective fiber predispose cows to Subacute Ruminal Acidosis (SARA), which triggers systemic inflammation, vascular dysfunction in the corium, and impaired keratinization, ultimately leading to weak claw horn tissue. Inadequate supply of micronutrients such as biotin, zinc, copper, manganese, and sulfur‑containing amino acids (methionine and cysteine) is associated with reduced horn quality, increased brittleness, and a higher incidence of sole ulcers, white line disease, and sole hemorrhages. The transition period represents the most critical phase of the production cycle, during which negative energy balance, hypocalcemia, hormonal fluctuations, and abrupt dietary changes intensify nutritional risk factors affecting claw health.
Conclusions: Targeted nutritional management focusing on rumen stability, prevention of SARA, and adequate provision of essential nutrients for keratin synthesis plays a pivotal role in maintaining claw horn health and reducing lameness. Implementing appropriate feeding strategies, particularly during the transition period, can improve animal welfare, production performance, and economic outcomes in dairy herds.