Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, hogs, and other animals with cloven (divided) hoofs. It is also known as hoof-and-mouth disease. The infection does not actually affect the hard structures of the hoof, but rather the soft tissues around it. Foot-and-mouth disease occurs among livestock in many regions of the world, particularly in Africa, Asia, and South America. The disease is rare in Australia, much of Europe, and North America.