Research shows that lame cows are up to four times more likely to have extended calving intervals, with each case costing $500–$800 in lost production and fertility impacts (DairyNZ, 2020-21).
On a 400-cow farm, even a 10% incidence rate could mean $20,000 to $30,000 lost in a single season.
Why lameness hits hard at mating
Mating season is make-or-break for herd fertility. Every day counts when it comes to getting cows in calf. But lameness can quietly derail results – lame cows are less likely to cycle, harder to detect on heat, and slower to conceive.
The key to protecting in-calf results is spotting problems early and treating them quickly.
Spotting lameness early
Early detection is everything. That’s why Shoof® developed the Shoof Lameness Scale – a simple, farmer-friendly guide to identifying cows at risk before problems become severe. The lameness scale also makes it easy to know what product is needed to get the right solution.
Using the scale during daily herd checks or while cows are walking to the shed makes it easier to act quickly, protecting both cow welfare and farm profitability.
Proven hoofcare on-farm
Founded in New Zealand in 1973, Shoof has been helping farmers care for their animals for over 50 years. The first “Shoe for a Hoof” launched in 1982, and today Shoof is recognised globally as a trusted name in hoofcare innovation.
Shoof’s range gives farmers practical, proven tools to prevent, treat, and manage lameness – particularly through the pressure of mating season:
- Hoof knives and tools: Precision trimming knives give accuracy and confidence when treating lesions.
- Walkease® Foam Hoof Blocks: For early intervention, these foam blocks take pressure off the sore claw and allow healing while the cow stays mobile and active in the herd. They bond quickly and wear naturally, requiring no removal.
- Hoofers®: Durable PVC cow clogs and adhesive systems designed for more complex lameness cases, especially where longer-term support is needed. Colour-coded clogs make herd management easier.
- Bovi-Bond adhesive: Premium two-part urethane adhesive trusted worldwide for securing wooden or rubber blocks to hooves. Fast-setting and durable, perfect for professional hoof trimmers and farmers.
A Walkease® Foam Hoof Block being applied.
One Taranaki dairy farmer says Shoof products helped them combat lameness on their farm.
“We got on top of lameness early last season using Walkease. It meant fewer cows were sitting out during mating, and we saw a real lift in in-calf rates.”
The takeaway
Lameness doesn’t just hurt hooves – it hurts production, fertility, and profitability. This mating season, proactive management and the right solutions can keep cows cycling, improve in-calf rates, and reduce costs. Shoof is more than a “shoe for a hoof”. They continue to lead hoof care innovation, giving Kiwi farmers the complete range of tools they need to stop lameness in its tracks.
Talk to your local Farm Source team today about the full Shoof hoof care range, including Walkease®, Hoofers®, Bovi-Bond, and essential trimming tools.