Cloven hoof

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For the heavy metal band, see Cloven Hoof (band).

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A cloven hoof is a type of hoof split into two toes, each encased by a layer of horn. This is found on most members within the mammalian order Artiodactyla. Examples of mammals that possess this type of hoof are cows and sheep. Only cloven-hoofed mammals have true horns, and most non-extinct species of mammals with a cloven hoof have been domesticated in some form.

One reason for mammals to be classified by type of hoof is for Jewish kosher standards. Observant Jews may not eat the meat of mammals other than those with cloven hooves. Camels and horses are examples of mammals with uncloven hooves. Some mammals, such as pigs, have a cloven hoof but are not considered kosher because they are not ruminants (they do not chew their cud) and therefore do not meet the other biblical criteria.

The cloven hoof is also traditionally associated with the Devil, possibly arising either from the association of pigs with uncleanliness or of goats (which also have cloven hooves) with sinfulness, or from the early Christian disdain for all things pagan including satyrs with cloven hooves.