

The Foundation of Success: Skeletal Correctness in Beef Cattle
Feb 3
2 min read
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The content of this blog is derived from my interview with Mark Goes- Nebraska Cattleman
I recently had the opportunity to speak with Mark Goes, a seasoned Nebraska cattleman, about a critical yet often overlooked aspect of cattle farming: structural correctness. As Mark put it, the feet and legs are the foundation of a cattle's overall well-being, and it all begins from the ground up.
Why Skeletal Correctness Matters
Just like the foundation of a house is crucial for its longevity and stability, the skeletal structure of cattle is vital for their health and productivity. Mark emphasized that good feet and leg structure is essential for the cattle to perform basic yet significant tasks such as seeking and grazing forages, navigating deep mud in feedlots, and traveling through adverse weather conditions. These abilities are not just crucial for their survival, but also for their performance, breeding, and overall well-being.
Healthy skeletal structure allows cattle to travel across pastures to find mates and enables sires to carry out breeding activities effectively. Herd health also hinges on this structural correctness. If the cattle don't feel comfortable, they're more susceptible to diseases and stress, which can negatively impact their performance and quality grade.
Tips for Selecting the Right Cattle
With bull sale season on the horizon, Mark shared valuable insights for producers on selecting cattle. A good starting point is livestock evaluation—avoid animals that are too straight or have too much sway in their structure. Look for animals with a balanced skeletal structure, as this indicates good posture and mobility.
Pay special attention to the pastern and toe morphology. Animals with well-structured feet and legs will have an even set to their toes, good depth to their heel, and a smooth, free-moving gait. Be cautious of animals with corrective work done on their hooves, as this might indicate underlying genetic issues.
The Role of Genetics and EPDs
Genetics play a crucial role in skeletal correctness. Some breed associations have been working on collecting hoof scoring data and integrating it into their Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs). Producers should look into their breed associations and utilize EPD profiles to identify potential structural issues.
Minimizing Structural Problems
Producers can minimize structural problems through intensive selection. With numerous traits to select for—from carcass traits to reproductive traits—it's vital to prioritize skeletal correctness. Utilizing economic index EPDs can help producers identify and select the best potential breeding stocks.
Mark highlighted the importance of evaluating your program and applying selection intensity to achieve your herd goals. By focusing on skeletal correctness, producers can ensure their cattle not only survive but thrive and perform in their production schemes.
Listen to the Full Interview Here: