What Animals Contract Foot-and-Mouth Disease?

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) primarily affects cloven-hoofed animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and deer. While it can infect a wide range of species within these groups, it's most economically significant in livestock. The disease is highly contagious and can spread rapidly among herds, leading to severe productivity losses. Additionally, some wildlife species can carry the virus, potentially complicating control efforts.