TITLE:
Characterization and Classification of Bovine Lameness in Extensive Livestock Farming: A Study Conducted in the Upper Lomami Pastoral Area (DRC)
AUTHORS:
Jean Claude Binemo Kanyama, Gaël Nzuzi Mavungu, Urbain Makitu Kassata, Somwe Delphin Lukamba, Victor Okombe Embeya, Gaspard Mahangaiko Muyumba, Moïse Lenge Mushiya Ngoi
KEYWORDS:
Characterization, Classification, Bovine Lameness, Extensive Livestock Farming, Pastorale du Haut-Lomami
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Animal Sciences,
Vol.16 No.3,
July
22,
2026
ABSTRACT: This study aimed to inventory, to classify, and to analyze the different types of bovine lameness observed in the extensive livestock farming system at the Pastoral du Haut Lomami (PHL) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. A descriptive and analytical approach was conducted on cattle of different zoo-technical categories, based on clinical observations, analyses of health records, and locomotor assessments using a standardized score. The data were processed using descriptive statistics, multivariate analyses (PCA, hierarchical clustering), and logistic regression models. The results show that lameness is the main cause of hospitalization in all studied sections, with a particularly high prevalence during the dry season. The classification of lameness reveals a clear predominance of non-infectious forms, dominated by hoof deformities, representing more than half of the cases in both seasons. Fractures, mainly observed in young animals, constitute the second major cause, while joint disorders remain secondary. Spatial analysis of the lesions highlights a strong predominance of hind limb involvement, suggesting the influence of biomechanical and environmental stresses. Multivariate analyses confirm that lameness is strongly associated with indicators of declining general condition, such as weight loss and wounds. Furthermore, certain factors, notably the dry season and deficiencies in trace elements such as zinc, appear to be significant determinants of lesion location. Overall, this study highlights the multifactorial nature of bovine lameness in extensive systems, dominated by mechanical, environmental, and nutritional stresses, with a marked influence of seasonality.