Neatsfoot oil is an oil rendered and purified from the feet and shinbones (not the hooves) of cattle. It remains liquid down to low temperature. It is used as a conditioning, softening and preservative for leather.
Neatsfoot oil is produced much less than it once was. Currently, the shins and feet of cattle are usually rendered along with the rest of the body.
The oil's name comes from a old term for animals of the genus Bos, especially cattle.
Last updated: 05-01-2005 16:18:47