Copper Sulfate Hoofbaths in the Control of Hoof Diseases in Dairy Cattle: Efficacy and Environmental Sustainability—A Review

Lameness in cattle is generally described as a condition characterized by an abnormal walking or posture which is often managed with copper sulfate (CuSO 4 ) hoofbaths, e.g., in case of digital dermatitis (DD). This review evaluates in vivo trials from the last 15 years (January 2010–March 2026) and the efficacy of CuSO 4 hoofbaths, their environmental impact, and the availability and performance of alternative products and agents (e.g., nanomaterials), with the aim of identifying sustainable management strategies for dairy farms and One Health goals. The selection criteria focused on peer-reviewed references and technical reports published in English. Hoofbath wastes can introduce high copper (Cu) loads into manure (500–2000 mg/L), leading to soil accumulation, impaired non-pathogenic microbial populations, and potential co-selection for pathogen resistance. Therefore, CuSO 4 can be effective but poses environmental risks due to Cu accumulation in soil and water, with mean concentrations reaching 5.7 ± 6.6 ppm Cu in areas where hoofbath effluent is discharged. Cu-free alternatives (e.g., quaternary ammonium compounds, organic acids) show comparable efficacy in some studies, but independent data on their environmental degradation and ecotoxicity are lacking. Although CuSO 4 hoofbaths pose environmental risks, they remain the most effective solution in improving hoof health. Controlled in vivo trials revealed that weekly 5% CuSO 4 hoofbaths can reduce the occurrence of lameness caused by hoof problems including DD by over 50%.