Method:
The animals are assessed while walking in a straight line on a hard, level, non-slippery surface that they normally use (e.g. not on pasture or bedded areas). The assessor performs a visual inspection from the side and/or behind.
Lameness Score:
- Score 0 (sound): Timing of steps and weight-bearing equal on all four feet
- Score 1 (moderately lame): Imperfect temporal rhythm in stride, resulting in a limp
- Score 2 (severely lame): Strong reluctance to bear weight on one limb, or more than one limb affected
Classification:
The percentage refers to cows with a lameness score ≥1, i.e. all cows that are moderately lame or severely lame.