Vertical wall cracks are most commonly observed in which cattle category?

• A. Dairy
• B. Calves
• C. Beef
• D. Heifers

Answer: (C)

Vertical wall cracks arise from repetitive mechanical stress and overgrowth of the hoof wall, where the horn splits along its length as weight is borne and the wall grows. Beef cattle are most prone because of their heavy body weight and management that often involves longer periods on hard or rough surfaces with less frequent hoof trimming. This combination increases stress along the wall and promotes vertical fissures. Calves are lighter, dairy cattle tend to have different hoof disease patterns tied to housing and nutrition, and heifers, while growing, typically experience less cumulative stress than mature beef cattle.