Pasture is not only about benefits
Grazing offers many benefits – exercise, a natural diet, and animal welfare. But it's also an environment in which cows' skin and hooves are exposed to factors less common in a barn: uneven ground, vegetation, moisture, insects, and contact with fences. This can result in minor wounds, abrasions, and skin irritations, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health problems, including inflammation.
Why is a minor wound not considered "minor"?
Any skin damage is a potential entry point for bacteria. In the case of the teats and udder, this can result in mastitis (which we discussed in more detail in the context of so-called summer mastitis), and in the case of the hooves, it can result in lameness, which translates into decreased feed intake and milk production. Therefore, a quick response to a noticed abrasion or scratch makes sense not only from a welfare perspective, but also from a production economics perspective.
Two different tasks, two different products
It is worth distinguishing between two types of situations that a breeder encounters during the summer season:
Fresh wound or abrasion - need protection
In the case of minor wounds and abrasions, it is crucial to quickly isolate the damaged area from dirt and moisture, without hindering the natural healing process. A preparation such as Alu Spray - a protective spray with aluminum that, after application, creates a breathable, hydrophobic layer on the skin, protecting the wound from external factors and supporting regeneration.
Irritated skin and hooves - need soothing and moisturizing
Another scenario is skin that is already irritated – for example, as a result of constant contact with wet ground, frequent rubbing against vegetation, or the conditions prevailing in a given pasture. In such cases, a care product is helpful, such as Blue Spray, containing glycerin (moisturizing), allantoin (soothing and regenerating) and isopropyl alcohol for easy hygienic application - also suitable for hoof care.
A short checklist for the grazing season
- Check your animals' skin and hooves regularly, not just during other treatments.
- Respond to minor changes right away – before they become a bigger problem.
- Have both a protective product for fresh wounds and a care product for irritations on hand – these are two different stages of the same problem.
- Pay attention to the conditions of the pasture itself: humidity, presence of insects, quality of fencing.
Both products mentioned? Alu Spray i Blue Spray ? you will find in Rumint's offer. Check the details at www.ruminta.eu or ask your advisor which one will be suitable for the specific situation in your herd.
