Trace elements as strategic determinants of dairy cattle claw health - A targeted narrative review

Lameness is a major health and welfare concern in dairy cattle, primarily driven by claw disorders such as sole ulcers, white line disease, and heel erosion. Trace elements, although required in small amounts, are essential for enzymatic activity, keratinization, antioxidant defense, and tissue repair – all critical for maintaining claw integrity. This targeted narrative review aims to evaluate the role of key trace minerals (zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, cobalt, and iron) in claw health and to assess their potential in preventing lameness within herd health programs. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published between 2000 and 2024. Although systematic elements were applied (search strategy, predefined eligibility criteria, and quality appraisal), this work was not designed as a full PRISMA-compliant systematic review. Of 79 identified studies, 20 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed qualitatively. Extracted data included mineral type, administration route, supplementation duration, and reported claw health outcomes. Dietary supplementation with organic trace minerals, particularly chelated forms, was associated with improved keratinization, claw hardness, and reduced lesion incidence. Topical applications, such as copper–zinc footbaths, yielded variable but promising results for digital dermatitis control. Histological analyses revealed that clinically recovered claws may still exhibit incomplete structural restoration. Trace minerals are fundamental for claw development and resilience. Strategic supplementation, both systemic and topical, can support lameness prevention and recovery. This review highlights the need for long-term studies to better understand mineral bioavailability, tissue-level effects, and integration into comprehensive claw health management.