Prevalence of lameness, hoof disorders and their associated factors among goats in ladang angkat farms

Tan, Jacky Lit Kai (2023) Prevalence of lameness, hoof disorders and their associated factors among goats in ladang angkat farms. [Project Paper] (Submitted)

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Abstract

Lameness is a condition that impairs animal locomotion and a major concern impacting goat productivity and welfare. Hoof disorders are the major causes of caprine lameness. However, there is a dearth of information on lameness and hoof disorders within Malaysia's goat farming context. This study investigated the prevalence of lameness, hoof disorders, and the associated factors among goats in Ladang Angkat Farms. A cross-sectional study was conducted in five purposively selected farms. A total of 100 goats were randomly selected and observed using a five-point locomotion scoring scale. Hoof disorders were examined, and data were collected on goat and farm characteristics, including age, breed, sex, body condition score (BCS), hoof length, production type, herd size, management practices, hoof care routines, floor type, and feeding regimen. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models. The mean (standard deviation) age of the goats was 2.35 (± 0.57) and 53.0% had poor BCS. The prevalence of lameness was 23% (LS of 3 and above) and hoof disorders was 54% (95% Confidence interval; CI 4.2 – 30.8%) and 54.0% (95% CI 16.7-69.2%), respectively. Among the lame goats, 87% had overgrown hooves. Lameness was predominant on the left hindlimb (47.8%), followed by the right hindlimb (30.4%), right forelimb (13%), and left forelimb (8.7%). No significant association was recorded between lameness and age, sex, breed, BCS, or health status. However, a strong association between lameness and hoof length indicated that goats with overgrown hooves were more likely to be lame (Odds ratio; OR = 8.54; 95% CI: 2.31-31.56) than those with normal hoof length. Three of the farms practiced intensive management, while none of the farms practiced hoof care. These findings depict a high prevalence of lameness and hoof disorders in the sampled farms and the need for proactive hoof care practices in goat farms.

Item Type:	Project Paper
Faculty:	Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Depositing User:	Ms Nurhaznita Mahmood
Date Deposited:	12 Aug 2024 07:47
Last Modified:	12 Aug 2024 07:47
URI:	http://psaspb.upm.edu.my/id/eprint/2048

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