A number of cases (>5 and <10) of abnormalities of the distal leg/foot and dew claws in Shorthorn calves have been reported. These cases are not "classic" mule foot as the claws (toes) are not fused, typically the calf has inappropriately placed dew claws and may have some other slight curvature or deformity at the base of the leg that makes it somewhat difficult for them to mobilize. It is my understanding that the ASA is aware of these cases.
All cases have similar ancestors on one side of the pedigree. The DNA from these cases has been 50K genotyped and there is information to suspect that this abnormality has a genetic component. However there have been insufficient samples submitted to clearly determine if the abnormality is genetic or if there is another cause.
If you have a calf born with an abnormality of the distal leg/foot/dew claw contact the ASA and submit samples to Dr Beever. The attached pictures of newborn calves show what this abnormality may look like
All cases have similar ancestors on one side of the pedigree. The DNA from these cases has been 50K genotyped and there is information to suspect that this abnormality has a genetic component. However there have been insufficient samples submitted to clearly determine if the abnormality is genetic or if there is another cause.
If you have a calf born with an abnormality of the distal leg/foot/dew claw contact the ASA and submit samples to Dr Beever. The attached pictures of newborn calves show what this abnormality may look like