DISEASES OF THE CLAWS IN CATTLE AND SHEEP. 



1097 



Above this, i.e., between the coronet bones, lies a large pad of fat, which 

 is continued downwards under the inner horn wall, and assists the move- 

 ment of the claws over one another. 



The bone of the claw (os pedis) is united to the coronet and fetlock bones 

 by two internal and external ligaments, and through the former to the 

 reinforcing band of the extensor pedis (ligamentum extensorum), whilst 

 the cruciform or interdigital ligaments unite the two claws and prevent 

 their being thrust too far asunder. 



This peculiar structural arrangement renders cattle less suited for 

 moving on hard ground, and, if they be forced to do so, predisposes 

 the soft structures of the claws to injury. The distribution of weight 

 in the claw is different from that in the hoof. Whilst in the hoof 

 the wall supports the principal weight and the sole is practically 

 exempt, the sole of the claw carries by far the greater portion of 

 weight. The same is true even when the claws are shod, and it explains 

 the frequent occurrence of bruises of the sole. 



Fig. 581. — Vertical section of an ox's claw. 



In these animals a local examination, although absolutely necessary 

 for diagnosis, is very difficult to make. When the animal is standing 

 it is sometimes possible to lift the foot, as in the horse, and thus 

 to examine it. In restless or obstinate animals, a cord may be passed 

 round the front fetlock, carried over the withers to the opposite 

 side, and the front foot thus lifted. The hind foot can be lifted by 

 passing a cord round the cannon, or by placing in front of the bend 

 of the hock a strong twitch-stick by which two strong men raise the 

 limb ; the hind foot may also be drawn up to the shafts of a waggon 

 and fastened. In any case, the animal must be firmly held by the 

 head. When the animal is lying, there is less difficulty, but the limbs 

 should be secured by means of cords. 



The foot may be examined by pressing on and moving it. Any 

 swelling, reddening of the neighbouring skin, wound about the claw, 

 or discharge of pus should be noted. Both the coronet and skin 

 of the interdigital space should be carefully examined, the foot being 



