Abstract

The present study was aimed at evaluating the mineral composition of the distal phalanx in crossbred cattle of Kerala and exploring its possible association with Claw Horn Disruption Lesions (CHDL). A total of 24 crossbred female cattle were categorised into four groups based on parity and presence of CHDL. The distal phalanges were collected post-mortem and analysed for 19 elements using ICP-OES following AOAC protocols. Significant differences in the levels of calcium, copper, magnesium, molybdenum, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc were noted across groups. Notably, cattle affected with CHDL showed elevated concentrations of Ca, Cu, Mg, Sr, and Zn. The findings suggested that mineral composition of the distal phalanx may influence claw health and potentially contribute to the development of CHDL, though further research is warranted to establish a definitive link.

Keywords : Distal phalanx, Crossbred cattle, Claw horn disruption lesions, Mineral composition, Lameness