Staff

SATO Ayano

Associate Professor

Theme

Elucidation of pathophysiology and herd management leads to early detection and prevention of lameness in cattle. Mechanisms of lameness in cattle.

My Dream

Contributing to the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in Cattle

Belongs

Research Department, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Division of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Section of Large Animal Clinical Sciences

Veterinary Medical Center, Large Animal Clinic

Faculty (Unit)

Veterinary Medicine Program

Field of research Veterinary Medicine, Animal Science, Animal Life Science
Keyword Cattle, Dairy Cow, Foof Disorder, Lameness, Image, Surgery

Introduction

In dairy cows, lameness is the second most significant disease after reproductive disorders. In adult cattle, hoof diseases account for approximately 80–90% of musculoskeletal disorders (Photo 1). Among these, hoof diseases affecting the hoof horn involve complex interrelated causes. Previous research has used cameras to analyze cattle movement, investigating the effects of hoof trimming and subtle changes in movement resulting from environmental changes (Photo 2). Since cows raised on commercial farms tend to experience excessive hoof growth due to living on hard surfaces that differ from natural environments, we are also examining weight distribution and appropriate hoof trimming methods by focusing on hoof growth patterns (Photos 3 and 4).
Furthermore, regarding musculoskeletal disorders that cause lameness in calves, many conditions remain difficult to diagnose even today, and the full scope of these diseases has not yet been fully characterized. Additionally, infectious diseases are influenced by herd management practices (photo 5). One of the objectives of my study is to clarify these unknown aspects of the diseases, link them to hard management, and thereby contribute to prevention.

Sole ulcer is the most common hoof disease affecting the hoof horn of cattle.（photo1）
A study comparing limb joint movement based on floor slip conditions（photo2）
Ultrasound images compared with CT images of the sole aspect of cow's hoof（photo3）
CT-3D images make it easier to understand the balance between the hoof bones and the hoof horn.（photo4）
Comparison of the image showing inflammation of the hip joint (left) and a normal image (right) in cases of arthritis; common musculoskeletal infection in calves（photo5）

List of current research topics

  • Study on the effects of bovine hoof horn, internal structure, and load balance on hoof disorder
  • Clinical research on joint diseases in cattle
  • Study on the bacterial flora in bovine digital dermatitis
Related industries Veterinary Medicine, Livestock farming
Affiliated academic society The Japanese Society of Veterinary Science, Japanese Journal of Large Animal Clinics, The Society of Farm Animal in Infectious Disease, Japanese Society of Veterinary Anesthesia and Surgery
Academic degree D.Vet.
License Veterinarian
Room address Large Animal Clinical building
Room number 210
Mail address ayn-sato atmark obihiro.ac.jp

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